Safe Place Program decal being added to Kelowna RCMP detachment (submitted photo/RCMP)

By Pete McIntyre

Safe place

RCMP program offers ‘safe places’ for LGBTQ2S+

Feb 22, 2021 | 1:14 PM

The RCMP SAFE PLACE program has been launched in Kelowna.

Originating in Seattle, the SAFE PLACE Program offers the LGBTQ2S+ community shelter if they are feeling unsafe, and shows that a business is a welcoming place where they can seek help and safely wait for police to arrive and assist them.

The program requires participating businesses, organizations, schools, and other institutions who wish to participate to complete a participation request form. Once this form is completed, the Kelowna RCMP will provide a RCMP SAFE PLACE decal or poster that can be displayed on the front window of the premises.

Displaying the decal or poster carries some important responsibilities that will greatly assist in protecting Lesbian, Gay, Transgender, Queer/Questioning (LGBTQ2S+) victims of crime.

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The program allows participating premises to be recognized and identified as a safe haven for members of the LGBTQ2S+ community if they are a victim of crime, are feeling unsafe, or are in distress. That individual will be welcomed in and assisted. Assistance in calling the police will be provided if required and they will be permitted to remain until officers arrive to assist them.

To join the program, staff, employees, supervisors, managers, teachers, volunteers, counselors and/or students would need to adhere to the following protocol:

• Apply the RCMP SAFE PLACE decal outside the front entrance of your establishment, building, room, etc. (approx. 3-5 feet high, if possible). If there is no glass at your front entrance, the RCMP SAFE PLACE poster can be placed conspicuously inside your premise.
• Allow these victims to enter and remain at your premise until the police arrive
• Either call, or assist these victims in calling 911.

Anyone interested in finding out more information about the program can contact Constable Robyn Boffy at (250) 762-3300 or by email at Robyn.Boffy@rcmp-grc.gc.ca