Guernsey venues highlight support training with window stickers

It will be easier for islanders to identify venues with 'Safe Place' training with staff there to help if a night out goes wrong.

SafetyNet launched the Safe Place Project earlier this year to train staff how to recognise and respond to situations where someone may feel unsafe.

The charity is now giving venues window stickers to show they are certified .

Places where at least 70% of staff have completed training to support vulnerable customers can display 'Spot the Shield' stickers.

SafetyNet Chair Poppy Murray says she is pleased 21 local venues have got involved.

The certified venues are:

Amigos, Bad Habits, Bar Bar Jay, Fermain Valley Hotel, Good Rebel, Hotel de Havelet, La Reunion, Les Rocquettes Hotel, Moores Hotel, Pingquay, Prince of Wales, Randy Paddle, Rebellion Pizza, Slaughterhouse, St James Guernsey, St Pierre Park Hotel, The Golden Lion, The Imperial, The Rockmount, Thomas De La Rue, and the Vraiceaters Tavern.

Poppy says their involvement shows that the safety and well-being of customers and staff is a priority.

SafetyNet Chair Poppy Murray at Pingquay -  a certified venue that can now display a shield sticker

A number of Guernsey Police Officers have attended training sessions to understand how the scheme aligns with their aims to ensure a safe and enjoyable nighttime economy.

Chief Officer Damian Kitchen says working together will improve safety.

"I continue to be impressed by the passion that SafetyNet and others across our community show for making Guernsey as safe as possible for everyone.

"While we live and work in a very safe community, with excellent hospitality and entertainment venues, our public survey earlier this year highlighted that some people have experienced harassment, unwanted touching, or intimidation when out in the nighttime economy.

"Women are consistently found to be disproportionately affected, but these behaviours can impact anyone, regardless of gender.

"It was therefore very positive to see that many bars, restaurants and pubs had sent their staff to these inputs delivered by established experts, demonstrating their determination and commitment to creating an environment where everyone can feel safe and respected.

"Giving staff the confidence to intervene early, or to simply check if someone is ok, is an important part of preventing anyone from becoming a victim of harassment or worse.

"It will also be a useful tool for the public to know which venues’ staff have undertaken the training.

"Community safety, tackling violence against women and girls, and prevention are all central themes in our new policing plan.

"Building relationships and working closely with the licensed trade is key.

"Guernsey Police already has strong relationships with licensed premises on the island and will continue to work collaboratively with them.

"I have been clear with our officers that I want zero tolerance for intimidation or aggression towards anyone, and have been impressed by recent incidents where officers have taken firm and positive action.

"I hope this police response gives both bar staff and the public confidence to report any concerns or incidents."