Keep Safe Places are local venues across the county that are there for residents as a place of support if they feel overwhelmed, scared or in need of help when out.
Black Dragon Games are a table-top gaming shop in Melton, who joined the scheme back in October 2023. They decided to get involved when Melton BID (Business Improvement District) put a call out to local places who could offer a safe space to residents.
Hear from Richard from the Black Dragon Games team on how one incident inspired them to join:
The call for safe places came shortly after an incident in the Town Park which saw some youths attacked and injured. Following the incident one of them had made straight for Black Dragon Games to get away from his attackers, where he was taken in and looked after. Emergency services were called, while a group of customers at the store headed out in search of his friends (who had fortunately already been found by the emergency services). We were enormously proud to see our staff and community take a lead role in the protection of members of the public, while supporting the emergency services who cared for the victims and investigated the night’s events.
As a store that is open late most nights it seemed ideal for us to get involved in a scheme which ensures that residents always have a place in the town centre where they will be safe. We have strong ties with the police, as well as local schools and businesses, and looking after members of the community is very important to us.
We would encourage anyone who feels unsafe during the day or evening to head over to Black Dragon Games, where we can find you a safe and warm place to sit while we contact someone who can help you.
Richard, Black Dragon Games
County and districts work together to provide safe spots for residents. Find Black Dragon Games, or a local keep safe place, on our website.
You can also keep an eye out for a ‘keep safe place’ sticker in windows!
