Cllrs, police and council officers, with My Caffe owner outside My Caffe
Barnet Council has launched Safe Havens as part of its work to combat Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG). This pioneering programme aims to provide practical support and refuge to individuals, particularly women and girls, who may feel intimidated, threatened, harassed, or unwell while out and about in the evening.
The Safe Havens pilot scheme has launched across three diverse businesses in North Finchley, with another to be added, these will serve as temporary refuges for those in need. Registered premises will display a distinctive Safe Haven sticker on their windows, signifying their commitment to offering appropriate support to anyone seeking assistance.
Under the scheme, participating businesses will ensure their staff are trained to provide assistance and guidance effectively. The council will cover the costs associated with promotional materials and essential equipment for the safe spaces, such as water and first aid kits.
Cllr Sara Conway, Cabinet Member for Community safety and Participation, said:
“The Safe Haven programme forms part of our wider community safety programme across Barnet which has included the investment and upgrades to our CCTV system, the establishment of community safety hubs, ward walks, and collaborative efforts with law enforcement agencies to target serious crime. It is also part of our comprehensive partnership approach to combatting violence against women and girls and domestic abuse.
“This pilot scheme will be assessed, and we hope if successful will be expanded in a phased approach into a wider network of safe spaces, to further combat VAWG and enhance community safety in Barnet.”
Claire Waxman OBE, Independent Victims’ Commissioner for London, said:
“I welcome this pilot and the Council's commitment to tackling violence against women and girls. Through this pilot, residents will have additional reassurance that support will be available if they feel intimidated or under threat at night.
“Too many women and young people feel unsafe on our streets. It is through collective efforts such as these, that we can begin to make London a city welcoming for all, whatever the time of day.”
The three North Finchley businesses taking part in the pilot scheme are, My Caffe on 731 High Rd, The Bohemia at 762-764 High Rd and the Elephant Inn at 283 Ballards Ln.
Hami Sadat, Owner of My Caffe, said:
“We’re really proud to be part of this project as it’s another way we get to support and serve the community that we love. We have great relationships with our customers and the people who live in the area and we hope this already feels like a safe space for people, which makes this opportunity feel like a very natural thing for us.”
Public premises across various sectors, including shops, cafes, pubs, libraries, and other places of interest, are encouraged to register as Safe Havens. These establishments will warmly welcome individuals in distress, offering a secure environment until they feel ready to depart. Staff members may assist by making necessary phone calls, providing helpful information on transportation options, and instilling confidence in individuals to continue their journeys safely.
Businesses interested in registering as Safe Havens are encouraged to contact Oliver Pinch at oliver.pinch@barnet.gov.uk.
This initiative underscores Barnet Council's unwavering commitment to fostering a borough where everyone can live free from domestic abuse and violence against women and girls.
ENDS
Notes to Editors
On 18 September 2023, a new law came into force making public sexual-based harassment a crime and could see people convicted of catcalling, stalking or other intentional sexual behaviour jailed for up to two years.