Safe space for vulnerable people

A new initiative offering a place of safety to people at risk from assault, robbery and sexual crimes is on trial in Sussex over the festive period.

The Safe Space project is being run and co-ordinated by Hove YMCA at St Paul's Church, in West Street, Brighton.

It aims to combat violent crime caused when victims are under the influence of alcohol, offering them assistance in a secure place and a safe return home.

It is operating up until 31 December from 2200 to 0300 GMT.

The project, which is also being staffed by volunteers from the British Red Cross, was open for four nights until Christmas Eve, and then re-opened again on Thursday.

Taz Fletcher, Safe Space project co-ordinator, said it provided help and support and practical assistance to people who were ill, injured, separated from friends, too intoxicated to get home safely, or vulnerable and distressed.

"We want to encourage police and licensees to send people who need support to the Safe Space," he said.