Local businesses and venues across Camden are opening their doors as official Safe Havens – providing temporary safe spaces for anyone feeling vulnerable and in need of support.
The scheme is part of the council’s ongoing commitment to tackling violence against women and girls and making everyone feel safer in the borough.
If someone is feeling threatened, being harassed on the street, or needs help to make a safe onward journey – they can drop in to the Safe Haven to get support. This support could include access to water, Wi-Fi, a phone charger, or help contacting family, friends, or emergency services.
The council has partnered with the Safer Business Network to deliver specialist training with a focus on providing friendly and non-judgemental support, reassuring anyone feeling vulnerable and signposting them any further help they may need.
So far, 17 businesses and venues in Camden are officially accredited Safe Havens and this number continues to grow. This includes many community centres, libraries, pubs, and more. You can look for the Safe Haven sticker displayed outside the venue or visit our website for an interactive map.
Councillor Pat Callaghan, Cabinet Member for Safer Communities, said: “We’re committed to helping everyone feel safer in Camden, however we hear too often that this isn’t always the case particularly for women and girls.
“I’m delighted that our network of Safe Havens is growing in Camden and more venues and businesses are taking part in vital training to support our residents. Their actions, no matter how small, could make an enormous difference to anyone feeling vulnerable.
“I strongly urge more organisations to sign up to the scheme. Together, we can work to make Camden feel a safer place for everyone.”
Participating venue, Wac Arts, said: “Wac Arts is proud to take part in the Safe Haven initiative, continuing the Old Town Hall’s 150‑year legacy as a place of safety, connection, and community support. The training was deeply informative and encouraged us to reflect on our own role in creating a safer, more welcoming environment for anyone who may need refuge. As a long‑standing organisation in this historic building, we’re committed to ensuring our community has access to essential support when it matters most.”
Any organisations interested in signing up as a Safe Haven can visit our webpage to find out more and register.
