Around 20 town centre shops and pubs have signed up to a scheme to provide a network of safe havens for anyone in need of help.

The likes of Toxic Angel, For Girlys, Munns, Savers, Mug and Meeple and the Somerset Arms have teamed up with Gravesham council to become designated “Safe Spaces”.

The scheme, which has been launched using funds from the government’s Safer Streets programme, means staff are trained to provide help to anyone who feels threatened by harassment, domestic abuse, or who has been made to feel unsafe, whether on foot or on public transport.

Leader of the council, Cllr John Burden, said: “Our Safe Space scheme is an important tool in our efforts to combat violence and domestic abuse against all, but particularly against women and girls.

“Every business taking part is displaying a distinctive orange logo prominently, meaning anyone concerned for their own safety can go in and ask for a safe space.

“This could range from somewhere just to wait until the individual feels safe to carry on with their day or evening, or until a family member or friend can come and collect them, or in urgent circumstances to wait safely until the police can attend.”

Last year, the Kent Police and Crime Commissioner’s office made a bid for funding from the programme, which saw the council receive more than £60,000, which is going towards a number of measures to improve town centre safety in Gravesend.

Cllr Burden added: “We understand how important it is to people to feel safe in our town centre.

“We are using the Safer Streets funding wisely and working closely with partners such as Kent Police towards that aim.

“Of course, our hope is that no one will feel they need to use them, but it is a reassurance for all that they are open and available if needed.”

A full list of all participating premises can be found here.

The council’s parking officers have also all been trained to provide support for anyone concerned for their safety, and they can also be approached and asked for help.