AW Lymn rolls out Safe Space scheme for vulnerable individuals
The initiative is aligned with recent government pledges to tackle violence against women and girls
AW Lymn has launched a Safe Space scheme across its 28 funeral homes, which will offer a place for vulnerable people to make phone calls, have private conversations or wait until help arrives.
The initiative, which aligns with recent government pledges to tackle violence against women and girls, provides a discreet and secure environment for vulnerable individuals, including survivors of domestic abuse.
With no formal training required, the scheme is designed to be simple yet effective, and encourages staff across the 28 branches to “be alert to anyone who may appear distressed or lost and to proactively offer assistance”.
However, the initiative emphasises that staff are not there to provide counselling or advice, but simply to offer a safe place for individuals to wait until they feel comfortable leaving or until further help arrives.
In line with this, the funeral service provider has shared with its staff a list of essential helpline numbers for support services.
Staff have also been advised never to allow the use of personal mobile devices and to offer a private room where individuals can make confidential phone calls using the business phone. This precaution is in the interest of survivors of domestic abuse, who may have their own phones monitored by their perpetrators.
Matthew Lymn Rose, managing director at AW Lymn, said: “In light of the government’s renewed focus on tackling domestic abuse, we are proud to roll out the Safe Space scheme in our funeral homes across the East Midlands.
“This initiative reflects our commitment to supporting our local communities in any way we can, providing a safe, secure environment where those in need can seek refuge.”
