A new app has launched today which seeks to keep children safe on Wandsworth’s streets.
Safety app provider Zecure has teamed up with Wandsworth Council and Police to help protect young people on their journey to and from school.
The idea was hatched by CEO at Zecure and Wandsworth parent, Mikkel Dissing, after his teenage son was mugged twice on Wandsworth Common.
This was mirrored in local reports of crime against secondary school age children, despite Wandsworth's reputation as inner London’s safest borough.
Patrols by Safer Schools officers were stepped up and children were given safety advice, but the father-of-two wanted “more peace of mind” that his son was safe.
The free app allows children to alert emergency contacts if they need help by holding down a panic button or by shaking their phone.
Young people can also inform parents when they have left school and arrived home safely.
Should a crime occur, video and sound footage will be recorded which could be used as evidence in court.
Data from users will contribute to a heat map of dangerous areas in the borough and help police create safe houses.
The app launches on Monday, March 15, in time for children’s return to the classroom.
Zecure is a London-based tech firm whose app helps organisations keep people safe at home and work.
The technology is used by companies such as Savills, BlackRock and British Airways to protect millions of staff.
Zecure also developed Hollie Guard, an app with similar features, which is intended to safeguard women while walking alone.
Cllr Jonathan Cook, chairman of the Wandsworth Safer Neighbourhood Board, said:
“Reports of robberies on schoolchildren are thankfully rare, but we wanted to find a way to give families peace of mind. We believe this is the first partnership of its kind in the UK and we hope it helps children stay safe.”
Mr Dissing, added, “I’m a Wandsworth parent and understand the need to protect our children from crime in the area, I’m happy to help families in Wandsworth stay safe with Zecure.”
“There’s no reason this couldn’t be a nationwide app, I’m just starting where my roots are.”
You can download Zecure now from the app store. To register use the six-letter code specifically for Wandsworth: WANSAF.
Parents can also sign up to Wandsworth Schools Watch for personal safety advice, information and updates on safe transport routes. Visit www.wandsworth.gov.uk/owl-online-watch-link
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