City centre launches its first SafeZone

by Mary [email protected]@LisburnStarMM
Neil Fyfe, manager of Premier Taxis, Yvonne Craig, NI Ambulance Service, and Steven Hall, NI Fire Service, with a defibrillator which will be available at the taxi company, at Smithfield Square, Lisburn, as part of its role as a base for dealing with emergencies. Looking on (back row) are Lesley Haslen, Premier Taxis supervisor, Stephen McKee, Premier Taxis day shift supervisor, Jonathan Craig MLA, Adie Bird, director of Resurgam Trust, Martin Busch, vice chair of PCSP, and Inspector Nigel Rowland, PSNI. Picture: Cliff DonaldsonNeil Fyfe, manager of Premier Taxis, Yvonne Craig, NI Ambulance Service, and Steven Hall, NI Fire Service, with a defibrillator which will be available at the taxi company, at Smithfield Square, Lisburn, as part of its role as a base for dealing with emergencies. Looking on (back row) are Lesley Haslen, Premier Taxis supervisor, Stephen McKee, Premier Taxis day shift supervisor, Jonathan Craig MLA, Adie Bird, director of Resurgam Trust, Martin Busch, vice chair of PCSP, and Inspector Nigel Rowland, PSNI. Picture: Cliff Donaldson
Neil Fyfe, manager of Premier Taxis, Yvonne Craig, NI Ambulance Service, and Steven Hall, NI Fire Service, with a defibrillator which will be available at the taxi company, at Smithfield Square, Lisburn, as part of its role as a base for dealing with emergencies. Looking on (back row) are Lesley Haslen, Premier Taxis supervisor, Stephen McKee, Premier Taxis day shift supervisor, Jonathan Craig MLA, Adie Bird, director of Resurgam Trust, Martin Busch, vice chair of PCSP, and Inspector Nigel Rowland, PSNI. Picture: Cliff Donaldson

The initiative organised by Lisburn and Castlereagh Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) is in collaboration with local PSNI and Resurgam Trust have launched a ‘Safe Zone’ for Lisburn City which includes a defibrillator.

The Safe Zone, located at the Premier Taxi Offices, Smithfield Square, Lisburn is identified by clear signage.

It is open 24 hours a day and is designed to act as a safe haven for anyone who feels threatened with a situation, vulnerable or feels unwell.

The staff at the premises have been trained in the use of the de-fib machine and have been instructed to contact the appropriate emergency service and offer that person a place of safety until the emergency services arrive.

Commenting on the introduction of this initiative, Lisburn and Castlereagh PCSP Chairman, Councillor Scott Carson, said: “I am encouraged by this initiative which is a first for Lisburn City.

“Similar Safe Zones are in operation elsewhere in the UK and are designed to offer a place of safety for an individual who feels unsafe or unwell.

“Lisburn and Castlereagh remains a very safe place to work, reside or socialise and this facility in Lisburn City is to complement what is already in place.”

Superintendent Sean Wright, PSNI District Commander commented: “The safety of all in Lisburn and Castlereagh District is our highest priority and the introduction of Safe Zone in Lisburn, with trained personal and specialist equipment helps us keep people safe. It can help offer reassurance to those that feel they need it and it is a most welcome addition to the city.”

Mr Adrian Bird, Director of Resurgam Trust commented: “Resurgam are delighted to support this initiative which will ultimately make Lisburn City a safer place to frequent. This is another positive example of effective partnership working for the benefit of all citizens.”

If you are interested in finding out more about this Safe Zone you should make contact with the PCSP on either 028 9250 9279/284 or [email protected]

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