City Hall joins safe haven scheme

The building has become the 200th CitySafe Haven

Young people who fear for their safety will be offered sanctuary in London's City Hall, it has been announced.

The building became the 200th CitySafe Haven as part of a scheme by campaign group London Citizens to get traders to help youngsters in trouble.

Most havens are shops in streets where teenagers have been murdered and staff at the businesses have agreed to keep watch over their area.

The commitment also means youngsters can seek sanctuary there.

Stronger community

Barry Mizen, whose son Jimmy died in a violent attack in a bakery in Lee, south-east London, said: "Through London Citizens we are working with local business to rebuild trust and make London a safer and stronger community.

"What happened to Jimmy shouldn't happen in strong communities. We've lost sight of each other over the years."

Tyeisha Litambola, whose brother Bob was beaten to death in broad daylight, said: "If the CitySafe campaign had been working at the time that Bob passed away, he could still be here today."

Mayor of London Boris Johnson said: "CitySafe Havens work with the police to make it clear that crime will not be tolerated and that every young person in trouble will be protected."