Information on Loughborough

How to get the 'Keep Safe' card for vulnerable people

Posted on 01/09/2008

Leicestershire Constabulary joins forces with multi-agency colleagues to distribute the ‘Keep Safe' card designed specifically for use by people with learning disabilities across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.

The fold out ‘Keep Safe' card can be kept in a wallet or purse and helps in difficult situations with easy to understand words and pictures i.e. if the card holder uses sign language or can lip read; what medication they take and who to contact in an emergency.

This important information is vital for emergency and care workers to provide help quickly to the card holder who may be scared and upset because of an accident, criminal incident or if they have got lost.

The Keep Safe card will be distributed free to people with learning disabilities and their carers at the following launches:

  • Melton: 10th September at Melton Venture House between 10am - 1pm
  • Market Harborough: 11th September at Roman Way between 9.30am - 12.30pm
  • Oadby: 6th October at Parklands Leisure Centre between 12pm - 3pm
  • Oakham: 10th October. Rutland County Council Offices between 9.30am - 12.30pm
  • Hinckley: 14th October at Millfield Day Service between 9.30am - 12.30pm
  • Coalville: 23rd October at Resource Centre, Comet Way between 12.30pm - 3pm
  • Leicester: 27th October at Braunstone Leisure Centre between 10am - 1pm

The card was developed after PC 1529 Mark Burns from Leicestershire Constabulary asked young people with learning disabilities how emergency workers can provide help quickly in difficult situations.

PC 1529 Mark Burns, said: "The first response from a policing point is crucial in determining the safety and welfare of the vulnerable person. If you need to contact us because you are a victim of crime, we understand that this can be a very distressing experience when there are communication problems.

"It is important for us to increase confidence in dealing with the police for all members of the community and to ensure they receive an appropriate service."

The card is produced with help from Jane Bromley, Community Development Worker for the Leicestershire Valuing People team. The card was initially funded by the Leicestershire Learning Disabilities Partnership Board and further funded by Leicestershire County, Leicester City and Rutland Councils. 

Assistant Chief Constable, Chris Eyre, said: "Policing is increasingly driven by effective engagement with all members of our communities and particularly those that are vulnerable.  Here in Leicestershire we are rightly proud to be recognised as a leader in neighbourhood policing. 

"Our multi-agency approach ensures consistency and a collaborative approach in responding to vulnerable people with appropriate help.

Mr Eyre is also chair of the Leicestershire and Rutland Criminal Justice Board which is acknowledged nationally as a beacon for the delivery of a criminal justice system putting victims at its heart and in which the public are confident and engaged.

"We are pleased to work with partner agencies to provide a range of ways in which vulnerable people can access all our services that address their particular needs.

"The ‘Keep Safe' card scheme ensures that our agenda for safer, more secure and healthier communities are met in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland."

For further information please contact Julie Bird at the Valuing People Team, Leicestershire County Council on 0116 305 7992.

Issued on 01/09/08 at 16:50