A project to provide safety and support for residents  across Winchester has been launched.

Businesses and organisations across the district are signing up as Spaces of Sanctuary as part of a new project led by Winchester City Council.

The project will see venue staff and volunteers trained to offer a confidential conversation to anyone seeking peace and safety in their venues.

They will also be able to signpost any queries to the appropriate place.

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Cabinet Rooms co-founders Gary Whiter and Marcus Roe  (Image: Winchester City Council)The city council devised the scheme to increase access to safe and supportive locations across the district.

The initiative aims to establish a network of community groups, organisations, parish councils, and local businesses accessible to anyone in need of a safe environment.

Councillor Kathleen Becker, the council's cabinet member for community and engagement, said: "Access to peaceful, supportive spaces where people can be sure they won’t be judged is something everyone deserves.

"So I’m really pleased to announce our new Spaces of Sanctuary initiative, which forms part of our commitment to the City of Sanctuary motion made by the council in 2022.

"We’re always on the lookout to expand the network and make sure more people have access to these Spaces of Sanctuary – I’d encourage any organisations who can offer respite to those residents who need it to get in touch."

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Each venue in the initiative will have a 'safe space' sticker in their windowEach venue in the initiative will have a 'safe space' sticker in their window (Image: Winchester City Council) One business already signed up to the scheme is the Cabinet Rooms in the city centre.

Co-founder of the Cabinet Rooms, Gary Whiter, said: "At the Cabinet Rooms we're proud to have a welcoming, inclusive and safe space for adults who feel the benefit.

"When we found out about the City Council's Space of Sanctuary scheme it made sense to us to support the initiative.

"We're looking forward to getting involved to further support our local community."

The Spaces of Sanctuary will be identified by window stickers.

More information and a full list of Spaces of Sanctuary can be found on the Winchester City Council website.