A scheme to keep people safe in Ashby and North West Leicestershire is expanding.

Organisations in the town are part of the Keep Safe Places scheme to offer a place of sanctuary and help for anyone who is anxious, scared or at risk when out and about.

Keep Safe Spaces in the district are supported by the Safer North West Leicestershire Partnership, which brings together a number of agencies to reduce crime and disorder.

Keep Safe Places in Ashby are:

• Ashby Library, North Street

• Ashby de la Zouch Town Council, Legion House, South Street

The expansion of the scheme comes in advance of National Hate Crime Awareness Week, when organisations across the country work to stamp out hate crime and provide support to victims.

Councillor Andrew Woodman, Chair of the Safer North West Leicestershire Safety Partnership, said: "Keep Safe Places provides temporary havens to people feeling vulnerable, upset, scared or distressed.

"Sometimes people just need reassurance, a place to sit or someone to offer to make a call for them. We know the community appreciates having these spaces and are glad to welcome more.

"If you're in our town centres and need a safe space, look out for the stickers on building windows and doors."