Halal restaurants support south London’s Safe Space scheme

I want our community – Balham, Earlsfield, Furzedown and Tooting – to be a safe space for all – Dr Rosena Allin-Khan, Labour MP

Halal restaurants are some of the first businesses to sign up and support a new ‘Safe Space’ initiative launched in south London.

Established by Labour MP for Tooting, Dr Rosena Allin-Khan, the scheme will provide places of shelter within the community for anyone feeling vulnerable and unsafe.

Having been put into place following the tragic murder of Sarah Everard earlier this year, around 50 local businesses have already signed up with more joining every day.

These include well-known Halal-friendly restaurants Balham Social on Station Parade, and on Upper Tooting Road Royal Mahal and Lahore Spices, as well as the following:

• • Balham Social – 2 Station Parade, Balham High Rd, SW12 9AZ
  • Royal Mahal – 32-36 Upper Tooting Rd, Tooting Bec, SW17 7PD
  • Lahore Karahi – 1 Tooting High St, SW17 0SN
  • Lahore Spices – 111-113 Upper Tooting Rd, SW17 7TJ
  • BEYroots – Unit 70 Broadway Market, 29 Tooting High St, SW17 0RL

These eateries are now designated as a ‘Safe Space’ for any residents if feeling unsafe to take shelter at and seek appropriate including calling the police.

Under half of all women feel unsafe while walking alone in busy public places at night, with around 19 per cent of men having experienced at least one form of harassment in the past 12 months, according to the Office of National Statistics (ONS).

Dr Rosena Allin-Khan reportedly said: “I want our community – Balham, Earlsfield, Furzedown and Tooting – to be a safe space for all.

“Local businesses have been so receptive to this initiative, signing up as Safe Spaces in their droves. Now we have spaces across our community where residents know they can seek safety with the peace of mind that those inside are ready to help if needed.

“Now, when you see the Safe Space sticker in a window, you can take comfort in the fact that this business is committed to help keep you safe.”

A complete list of local businesses, including an online form for other businesses to sign up and support this initiative, can be accessed at: www.drrosena.co.uk/safespace.