A network of safe locations have been set up throughout West Dunbartonshire for people to go to if they feel frightened or distressed when out in the community.

Shops, libraries and cafes have agreed to make their premises a ‘Keep Safe’ place in an initiative run by I Am Me Scotland who work in partnership with Police Scotland.

PC Tracy Melvin from the Safer Communities Department at Dumbarton Police Office is currently working to promote the initiative.

In statement, the police stay: "We are delighted to have signed up all libraries in West Dunbartonshire which is a fantastic achievement for the local area.

"The initiative works with a network of businesses such as shops, libraries and cafes who have agreed to make their premises a ‘Keep Safe’ place for people if they feel frightened, distressed or are the victim of crime when out in the community.

"Businesses who agree to take part in the initiative will be issued with a sticker to display in their window to let vulnerable people know that they provide a ‘Keep Safe’ place.

"The aim of the initiative is to ensure that disabled people can enjoy ordinary day-to-day life and activities free from the fear of abuse or intimidation."

Signed up already are Loch Lomond Shores at Balloch, Y-Sort It, West Dunbartonshire, West Dunbartonshire Leisure (Alexandria, Dumbarton and Clydebank), the Carman Centre in Renton, and West College Scotland, Clydebank.

If you would like more information, or you work in a local business and would like to participate, contact PC Melvin at Dumbarton Police Office on 101.

See also iammescotland.co.uk/keep-safe/about-keep-safe/