Shops offer safe spaces for domestic abuse victims

Shops across East Yorkshire are taking part in the initiative

Businesses across East Yorkshire are providing safe spaces for victims of domestic abuse.

The initiative, supported by East Riding of Yorkshire Council, provides people with a private area in stores to call support services or loved ones.

As well as physical locations, organisations can also offer online safe spaces.

The websites will be accessible by a discreet button and will ensure that no trace of the victim using the service is left behind, the council said.

This project is running alongside the existing Ask for Angela initiative, which enables individuals who feel unsafe, threatened, or vulnerable to discreetly seek assistance by asking bar or venue staff for "Angela."

Trained personnel can then intervene by helping the individual leave discreetly, calling a taxi, or alerting authorities if necessary.

Councillor Lyn Healing, cabinet member for communities and public protection, said that everybody had "a role to play in supporting victims of domestic abuse and preventing violence against women and girls.

"It's fantastic to see local businesses participate in this vital initiative," she said.

"We encourage more organisations to sign up to create their own safe spaces."

As list of the safe spaces across the county can be found on the UK Says No More website.

Listen to highlights from Hull and East Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, watch the latest episode of Look North or tell us about a story you think we should be covering here.