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Monday 3 Mar 2025

Leeds station's new safe hub is hailed by police and charities

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A pioneering safe hub has launched at Leeds station, creating a dedicated space where vital support services can reach and help vulnerable people in the community.

The hub will host various key organisations including British Transport Police, Samaritans, and the Women's Night Safe Space group, with additional charities already looking to join this innovative partnership.

It will operate on a flexible booking system – allowing organisations to book and use the space when their services are most needed.

All the items inside the hub, including furniture and artwork, have been donated.

Julie Swift, station interface manager for Leeds station, said: “This vital new hub represents a significant step forward in supporting vulnerable people across Leeds. By partnering with trusted local organisations, we're not just creating a space – we're building a link where people can access essential support in times of need.

“The hub is the culmination of years of careful planning and collaboration and will enable us to reach more people than ever before. It's a proud moment to see this initiative come to life, knowing it will make a lasting difference to our community."

Sue Starkey, branch director for Leeds Samaritans, said: “We are excited to join the charity hub initiative at Leeds station, raising awareness and connecting with our community. We’ve a long-standing relationship with the station teams and host events throughout the year, supporting national events like Small Talk Saves Lives, Brew Monday, and World Suicide Prevention Day. 

“The charity hub allows us to pilot tailored outreach events, providing space to offer emotional support, strengthening our relationship with the community, Network Rail and partners.”

Inspector Kelly Durant, British Transport Police, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for British Transport Police to support and work with charity partners to offer an accessible safe space for those in need.

“By coming together, we can make best use of our resources to officer a coordinated approach which ensures that people receive the right support at the right time.

“To report a crime or any concerns on the rail network you can text BTP discreetly on 61016 or call 0800 40 50 40. In an emergency always call 999.”

Shreena Gobey, women’s night safe space coordinator for Women Friendly Leeds, said: “It’s great to see the opening of a new community space available in Leeds. We know from our Women Friendly Leeds safety survey that 97% of women believe being a woman affects their personal safety and 43% of women have experienced harassment or assault using public transport.

“We welcome this initiative supporting increased awareness and response to address violence against women and girls.”

The hub has launched initially as a trial, with plans to make it permanent following evaluation of its effectiveness and impact on the local community.