McCarthy urges early start to 'Stay safe' campaign

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Tue 14th Oct 2003

ALLIANCE Councillor Kieran McCarthy has welcomed the new 'Stay Safe, Stay Secure' initiative aimed at making older people safer in their homes.

The Alliance health spokesman said: "This is a step in the right direction, after the rise in crime against older people in recent months.

"It is a sorry state of affairs when the vulnerable have to lock themselves into their houses because of attacks, burglaries and robberies. But older people need to be safe and feel safer, and I would call upon the government to ensure that security measures are fitted and advice handed out as soon as possible.

"As well as this initiative, I would also urge people to be a good neighbour, especially as winter draws in, and check with older friends on a regular basis."