Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole | Posted on May 26th, 2026 | return to news

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole promote safety for all

The enhanced scheme offers 102 safe places in Bournemouth, 57 in Poole and 16 in Christchurch, and they are signposted by a logo.

It would be very sad if people avoided going out in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole areas because they were fearful.

Now, however, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council has more places than ever to turn to for help, thanks to the continued expansion of the Safe Places Scheme.

Safe Places are registered venues that offer help and support if someone is anxious, scared or believes they may be at risk. These everyday locations, including shops, cafés and community venues, have trained staff who can provide a calm, welcoming space, whether someone needs reassurance, help making a phone call or support to get home safely.

There are now 175 Safe Places across the BCP area, with 102 in Bournemouth, 57 in Poole and 16 in Christchurch.

Cllr Kieron Wilson, BCP Council Cabinet member for Community Safety, said: “Creating a safer and more supportive BCP is something we can only achieve by working together. Through partnerships like Safer BCP and our work with People First Forum, we’re helping build a network of Safe Places that residents can rely on whenever they feel vulnerable or at risk.

“This scheme strengthens our community by giving people the confidence to seek help, and by equipping local businesses with the tools to recognise concerns and respond appropriately. I’m proud of the growing number of venues taking part, and we welcome even more to join us in making our towns safer and more inclusive.”

The Safe Places Scheme is delivered locally by People First Forum as part of the national Safe Places network. It helps ensure that everyone, including people with learning disabilities, autism, dementia or anyone who feels vulnerable, can feel safe and supported when out in the community.

Amanda Frost, learning disabled assistant manager at People First Forum, said: “We want everyone locally, including visitors, to feel welcome and safe in this lovely area.

“The Safe Places Scheme helps people to feel confident to go out, meet friends and enjoy their community. We’re so grateful to the many local businesses already supporting the scheme, and we’d love to see even more get involved.

“The success of the Safe Places Scheme relies on community spirit, and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole have shown plenty of that. Every new venue that joins helps make our towns safer and more inclusive for everyone.”

Venues that are part of the scheme display the Safe Places logo in their window, so residents can easily spot where to go if they need help. Staff in these venues are trained to offer reassurance, make a phone call or help someone get in touch with a trusted person.

People First Forum has operated the scheme in BCP for 16 years for people with learning disabilities. Over the last two years, BCP Council and People First Forum have been working to expand the scheme so that Safe Places are available to anyone who might need one – including, but not limited to, young people, women and girls and older people.

Local businesses, cafés, hotels and public venues can sign up to become a Safe Place. Participants receive training, resources and a window sticker to show that help is available.

Find out more and view the map of Safe Places: www.safeplaces.org.uk/member-schemes/bournemouth-christchurch-poole. More information about People First Forum: www.peoplefirstforum.co.uk