Co-op has introduced a “safe space” in its stores nationwide as it pledges to become a “safe haven” for anyone in need.
The National Business Crime Centre (NBCC) scheme aims to provide spaces for anyone feeling unsafe or vulnerable when outside on UK streets.
Also known as Operation Portum, the convenience retailer will now offer anyone seeking refuge the use of a phone to contact emergency service, a friend or a relative.
They will also allow members of the public to wait safely on a shop floor in an area covered by CCTV until support arrives.
With around 2,400 UK stores, the retailer joining the scheme boosts the number of “safe space” locations to more than 13,000.
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Last year, the Co-op was one of the first retailers to sign up to the Mayor of London’s Women’s Night Safety Charter.
Co-op operations director Kate McCrae Graham said: “Co-op is committed to operating at the heart of local life and, nothing is more important to us than the safety of our colleagues, member-owners, customers and communities.
“Anyone seeking a safe haven in their local Co-op will always be welcomed, encouraged to report their concerns and, above all, believed – as a convenience retailer, our doors are open from early morning until late into the night, and we want people to know that Co-op is always a welcome light and safe haven for anyone who feels unsafe or in need of support.”
NBCC lead superintendent Patrick Holdaway added: “The NBCC has a long working relationship with the Co-op and know how committed they are to protecting their staff and their customers. We know this will offer reassurance to many people who live or work near a Co-op store particularly as many stores stay open late at night when people can feel more vulnerable.”
The Co-op’s decision follows in the wake of similar safe haven initiatives introduced by fellow grocer giants in recent years.
In 2020, Morrisons joined forces with Hestia’s UK Says No More campaign to offer ‘safe spaces’ to people suffering from domestic abuse, while in 2021 Asda, Tesco and M&S took to social media to announce their stores as safe havens following the death of Sarah Everard.
