MORE than 60 Minehead businesses have voiced their support for a new scheme to give people with learning difficulties 'safe havens' around the town,

Three have already signed up to the pilot project, which will see local firms acting as points of contact for people with learning difficulties if they get into trouble.

Problems could range from lost keys or wallets, through to more serious issues such as bullying or theft.

Participating businesses are provided with window stickers so people know where to ask for help and staff are trained to respond quickly and correctly.

People using the scheme have booklets explaining how it works and introduction cards which have enough details for staff to summon extra help if it is needed.

The Keeping Safe Scheme has been brought to the area by Somerset County Council's learning disabilities team in partnership with West Somerset Council's community safety officer, the police and Somerset Advocacy, as well as people with learning disabilities and their carers.

The scheme was officially launched last Friday at Foxes Academy in Minehead, a residential training hotel and training college for young adults with learning disabilities.

Cllr Christine Lawrence, Somerset County Council cabinet member for community services, said: "This has been successfully trialed in some other counties but it will be a first for Somerset.

"This is a great example of agencies working together and with their communities to benefit everyone. I hope the enthusiasm shown for it in Minehead is mirrored across the county."

The initiative was funded by the county council, which provided the booklets and stickers and is organised locally by West Somerset Council's community safety officer Peter Hughes, together with police community support officers from Minehead Police Station.

Cllr Dave Westcott, West Somerset Council's lead member for community, said: "More than 60 businesses have shown support for the scheme and three premises of different types have already signed up and are trialing it from today - these are the West Somerset Railway, Tescos and BR James Opticians.

"These businesses cover different areas of the town so that if people with learning difficulties find themselves in any sort of trouble, they have safe places in which to ask for help.

"It's a great initiative and thanks go to everyone who is supporting the scheme for the care and support they are showing for all people in our community."

Keeping Safe will be administered by Somerset Advocacy, an independent not-for-profit organisation based in Taunton that provides a countywide advocacy service for vulnerable people who require support to have a 'voice' in their lives.

Minehead police inspector Lisa Simpson added: "We are delighted to be involved in the Keeping Safe scheme.

"We are always keen to help with any initiative which protects our communities, particularly more vulnerable individuals.

"I would encourage more local businesses and organisations to get involved to ensure Minehead is a welcoming and positive place for all."

More information about the Somerset Keeping Safe Scheme is available from Somerset Advocacy on 01823 322900 or Lynne Wilmot on 01749 3460031.