HSBC’s Horsforth branch has signed up to Safe Places – a national scheme that provides local authorities with the ability to establish and maintain places that can offer a safe haven for vulnerable people across the UK.

The Town Street business has placed a sticker in its window, identifying the location as a ‘Safe Place’, to mark Learning Disability Week.

Staff members are completing their Safe Places training, which is designed to enable them to assist vulnerable people in the community, including those with a learning disability or dementia.

HSBC regional director, Andy Maisey, said: “Our teams are very community spirited and are proud to be able to provide support to vulnerable members of the Horsforth community when they need it the most.

“Vulnerable people can face a host of difficult circumstances when they are out and about – from suffering harassment to feeling lost. It is important for them to have a safe place to go to if they are distressed, or simply need help."

Vulnerable people can register with the Safe Places scheme. They receive a distinctive wristband together with a card on which they can write their name and telephone numbers of up to three people who can be contacted in an emergency.

In the event that a vulnerable person requires assistance, they look for a place displaying the window sticker and tell the staff at the ‘Safe Place’ that they need help.