PEOPLE with disabilities will soon have a network of safe places to go in Wantage.

A group of local organisations are launching a Safe Places scheme for the town at Wantage Mix Community Shop on April 16.

In the national scheme, businesses put a sticker in their window to identify themselves as a safe place to take refuge and feel safe.

Organiser Emma Sims said: “The scheme aims to help people to feel safer because they have a safe place to go to.

“They may be elderly or people with dementia, people with learning disabilities or mental health needs, or an overseas visitor.’’ The Wantage scheme has been organised by The Charlton Centre, Wantage Daytime Support and Oxfordshire Family Support Network, working in partnership with Oxfordshire County Council, Thames Valley Police, disabled charities Style Acre and Mencap, and the Wantage My Life My Choice group for people with learning disabilities.

The launch event will be held at Wantage Mix Community Shop from 10am until 3.30pm.