Students at The Sixth Form Centre have received free personal safety alarms thanks to funding from the Saffery Rotary Walk.
450 alarms were donated to the school for students aged 16-18 years old as part of an initiative by SafetyNet, the island’s charity for safer nights out. A further 1,550 alarms will be distributed to students across the island in the coming months.
The alarms have a torch and keyring and are an effective tool to attract attention when needed. The devices are sometimes referred to as ‘rape alarms’ because they can be used to attract attention or act as a deterrent in dangerous situations. However, they are not limited to these types of incidents. They can be used in various scenarios, such as drawing attention during an accident, a medical emergency, or when someone is lost.
Additionally, many young people rely on their phones for a torch, but these alarms provide an alternative source of light if their phone is lost, or their battery runs out.
SafetyNet Chair Poppy Murray and Trustee, Adam Cole delivered an assembly at the Sixth Form Centre alongside distributing the alarms.
Adam said: “We believe that everyone deserves a safe night out, which includes getting home safely. It is essential to educate young people about the legal consequences of sexual assault, spiking, and harassment, as we covered in the assembly.
“This not only serves as a deterrent for potential perpetrators by making them consider the impact on their own lives but also reassures victims that there are legal avenues for seeking justice in Guernsey. We are incredibly grateful for the funding from the Saffery Rotary Walk, without which this initiative would not have been possible.”
Director of Sixth Form Studies, Charlotte Hales, added: “We prioritise the safety of all our students and believe it is essential for young people to be aware of the issues discussed by Poppy and Adam. It is crucial that students have the tools to seek help if needed and know about the support services available to them. While we hope none of our students ever become victims, it is reassuring to know they have received this information and the alarms, should they ever need them.”
Pictured: Director of Sixth Form Studies Charlee Hales, Students Teyhan Anslow, Sindy Mkandla, Grace Richards, Rora Bougourd, Darcie Harrison, Emma Feist and SafetyNet Trustee (and Walkers Partner) Adam Cole
