Rays Ice Cream has signed up for the Safe Places scheme at both of its stores.

The scheme aims to highlight businesses as places of shelter for people who might require additional support when out in the community.

Both of the Rays Ice Cream stores, owned by Hadi Brooks, in Royal Wootton Bassett and Old Town will be taking part.

The idea of signing up the company was thanks to Daisy Offer who works at the business.

She said: "I already knew about the scheme as the café my Dad owned was a Safe Place. I felt it was really important to sign up because Rays is a place where everyone is welcome and we would assist anyone who needs help, whether they are a customer or not.

"We have a really strong foothold in our community and a fantastic online following, but there is always more that local businesses can do to reach out to those people that may feel marginalised for whatever reason.

"So I mentioned it to Hadi Brooks who was fully supportive and here we are. If we can help just one vulnerable person as a result of this then it’s worth doing."

Owner of the company, Hadi Brooks, added: "I was unaware of this scheme, but when Daisy brought the idea to me and suggested we sign up I was all for it, it’s a great idea to provide a little extra help to people in their time of need.

"We’re thinking of other ways we can help too and are planning a midweek club for adults to try and do our little bit to help combat loneliness, keep an eye on our social media for further information."

Rays Ice Cream sells home made ice cream in a variety of flavours as well as ice cream cakes and milkshakes.

The Safe Places scheme website encourages people that might need it to sign up. It says: "Swindon Safe Places Scheme is supported by Disability Experts and Wiltshire Victim Support.

"If something happens and you feel you need help you can go into any shop, library or office that has the sign in the window.

"The people there can make a phone call for you and give you somewhere safe to be until you feel better and if you need it, somebody you know and trust can come and pick you up."