Brentford FC's Gtech Community Stadium Launches a 27/7 Safehaven

Brentford FC’s Gtech Community Stadium has officially been accredited as a Safe Haven by the Safer Business Network, further strengthening the club’s commitment to supporting the local community.

Located at the club’s west stand security hub on Lionel Road South, the Safe Haven will provide support 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year to anyone who feels vulnerable or in need of assistance. Managed by trained security staff, the facility will remain open to the community at all times.

Safe Havens are dedicated spaces designed to support people during vulnerable situations, offering practical assistance such as contacting emergency services, charging mobile phones, arranging transport or helping individuals get in touch with friends and family.

The accreditation forms part of Brentford FC’s wider commitment to ensuring supporters and members of the local community, particularly women and girls, feel safe in the area throughout the year and not just on matchdays.

The Safe Haven will be staffed by security personnel who have completed specialist training provided by the Safer Business Network. The programme equips staff with the skills needed to recognise vulnerability and provide appropriate support to those who may need help.

Brentford FC chief executive Jon Varney said: “We are a club that sits at the heart of the community and it is vital that we are able to support our fans and those living in the local area. By creating a Safe Haven space at our stadium, we are helping to ensure support is available for anyone at any time of day.

“This builds on the extensive work we are already doing with fans and partners as part of our continued commitment to creating inclusive and safer environments for women and girls, not just on a matchday but every day.”

Eren Bessim, training and development manager at the Safer Business Network, added: “We are delighted to welcome Brentford Football Club as the latest venue to become a Safe Haven.

“As a club so deeply embedded within its community, Brentford continues to lead the way in championing safety, inclusion and wellbeing both on and off the pitch.

“Brentford FC is also a proud supporter of the Women’s Night Safety Charter, reinforcing its commitment to tackling violence against women and girls and helping to make the Gtech a safer place for all. Their leadership and passion for creating safer spaces make them a powerful advocate for this initiative and we look forward to working closely with Brentford as part of our growing Safe Haven network.”

Brentford FC said it will continue prioritising initiatives that improve safety for women and girls, while working to raise awareness, educate communities and encourage action around the issue.