A SCHEME that helps the elderly and those with learning disabilities is hoping to recruit more members.

Libraries in Witham, Braintree and Halstead will be giving out Keep Safe packs to coincide with Essex Keep Safe Week from June 20 to June 26.

The council along with staff from the scheme will also be encouraging local shops to become Keep Safe friendly.

The scheme gives vulnerable people a Keep Safe card and key ring labelled with essential contact numbers designed to help give them the confidence to stay independent.

Roy Cavinder, who is a member of Keep Safe, said: “The Keep Safe Scheme has given me assurance that my family can be contacted should I need help in the event of an emergency when I am out on my own.

"It has also enabled me to maintain my independence and I would thoroughly recommend it.”

John Smith, Chairman for Braintree Pensioner’s Action Group, said: “The scheme is a very good one for elderly people. I hope many of our members will carry the cards with them and fix the key card to their key rings as I know it will really help them and make them feel more at ease when going out and about.“

Councillor Jo Beavis, cabinet member in charge of Health and Communities, said: “As a council we have a responsibility to ensure that our town centres are safe and inclusive spaces for all and that is exactly what Keep Safe is all about.

"It’s so important to do all we can to make sure that people can continue to live at home and in their community without worry. "

23 businesses are currently signed up to the initiative in the Braintree district, and over 500 across Essex.

You can follow the Keep Safe celebrations during the week using the hashtag #keepsafeessex.