The Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS), in partnership with the British Red Cross (BRC), has introduced a Safe Spaces initiative.
Safe Spaces provides a secure and supportive environment for people who feel vulnerable, afraid, or at risk. This may include individuals affected by domestic abuse, those experiencing a mental health crisis, people who are lost or disoriented, or anyone in need of short-term reassurance and support.
Each GMFRS fire station is a designated Safe Space where a dynamic risk-assessed response will be provided. For cases requiring more than short-term support, the British Red Cross will deploy Emergency Response Volunteers to take over care, enabling fire crews to remain available for operational duties. Where necessary, GMFRS will also work with NWAS, GMP, and other partners to ensure appropriate onward support.
What are Safe Spaces?
Safe Spaces are provided at all GMFRS fire stations offering temporary sanctuary and support to individuals who feel vulnerable, threatened, or in crisis. This may include people:
- Experiencing domestic abuse
- In mental health crisis or emotional distress
- Who are lost, disorientated, or isolated
- Facing any situation where they feel unsafe or at risk
What support is provided?
Individuals are received into a risk-assessed, safe environment within the station
GMFRS staff carry out a dynamic risk assessment and provide initial support and reassurance
Appropriate referrals or escalation to partner agencies (e.g. NWAS, GMP) are made where required
Partnership with the British Red Cross
For situations requiring ongoing support:
- GMFRS works in partnership with the British Red Cross (BRC)
- BRC Emergency Response Volunteers (ERVs) will attend the station (typically within 90 minutes) to take over responsibility for the individual’s care
- This ensures individuals continue to receive support while enabling fire crews to remain operationally available
Safeguarding and safety
- All interactions are conducted in line with GMFRS safeguarding responsibilities
- Individuals are always supervised and supported in a safe, controlled environment
- Access may be refused in circumstances where there is a clear risk to staff or others
Key points for partners
- GMFRS fire stations can act as a place of safety and first point of contact for vulnerable individuals
- Safe Spaces complements existing multi-agency safeguarding arrangements and pathways
- GMFRS will work with relevant partners to ensure appropriate onward care and support
Find out more here