A SCHEME to help people with learning disabilities feel confident and safe in and around the town will be launched next week.

Energy2work is leading the introduction of the Safe Place Scheme with the help of almost 20 local businesses and it is hoped it can be rolled out to the rest of the town in the next two months.

The scheme, which is funded by the Learning Disability Partnership Board, will see businesses displaying a sticker which can be identified as a ‘safe place’ for cardholders who feel unwell, scared or who are lost.

Businesses can then signpost the person to the next place of safety by calling the person’s carer or support worker whose name is on the card.

The card will increase the choices available to people with learning disabilities and give them greater freedom to travel in confidence.

Those already signed up to the scheme include McDonald’s, Argos, WH Smith, Costa and Starbucks.

Ann King, the project manager at Energy2work, said: “This is a simple yet effective scheme that promotes greater independence for people with learning disabilities.

“We are proud to be managing it and looking forward to it rolling out across Swindon this summer.”

Energy2work co-ordinator Euan Tait said: “This is a new development and I think it will be incredibly positive.

“People with learning difficulties are becoming increasingly more independent and are using the same community facilities as everybody else, but of course from time to time, things can go wrong and they will need additional support.

“The idea is really to give these people a safe place to go to if things go wrong and they need help.”

Coun Brian Mattock, Swindon Council’s cabinet member for health, housing and adult social care, said: “I would like to thank all the businesses that have signed up to this scheme as it will be of great benefit to a number of people who would normally not have the confidence to venture into town on their own.

“I would urge as many businesses as possible to lend their support so we can make the whole town a safe place zone.”

McDonald’s franchisee Paul Booth, has backed the introduction of the Stay Safe Scheme and will be displaying a sticker in each of his five restaurants in the town. His restaurant managers will also be receiving training about the scheme.

He said: “McDonald’s may be a global brand but as a local businessman I want to support my local community.

“We sometimes take our independence for granted, but this scheme will provide a safe haven for vulnerable people in Swindon, giving them greater independence and security, as well as giving peace of mind for their friends and family.”

The official launch of the Safe Place Scheme will take place on Wednesday at 11am at the Civic Offices.

Anyone interested in supporting the scheme who would like to attend the launch should call 01793 548060.