Soho Solutions gives out 100 free security alarms to women
By Mary Dennehy
IN RESPONSE to the number of attacks on female walkers in recent months, a Tallaght company has provided 100 free personal security alarms to women in the community.
New internet café, vaping and IT repair service Soho [Small Office Home Office] Solutions, which opened in the Marlfield Mall in Kiltipper three months ago, has already organised a number of initiatives in support of Tallaght-based, homeless support group Visit.
This month, Soho owner and Firhouse resident Stephen Quinn (36) is continuing with his promise to actively support his community, and has provided 100 free personal security alarms to local women and groups.
Stephen, who spent 16 years working for companies like Microsoft and HP before setting up his own venture, told The Echo: “We don’t sell personal attack alarms here at Soho Solutions, but hearing of the attacks on walkers, especially the early morning attack on a woman in Bancroft Park recently, prompted me to look into the alarms.
“I decided to take the lead and I got a box of 100, which I offered to members of the public, organisations working with women, like homeless group VISIT, and I gave a few to my local pub Scholars, which has female staff walking to work in the evenings and leaving late.”
He added: “I definitely believe that businesses have a responsibility to the community in which they are based and it’s important to become part of that community and give something back.
“I’ve always being involved in this kind of community work in past jobs and I think businesses should look to their community and see what support it needs.
“I hope that these alarms can keep their owners safe and that handing them out will also raise awareness around personal safety.
“It would be great if other companies got involved and provided free alarms too, I’m hoping I’ve just got the ball rolling.”
The personal attack alarms are on a key chain which, when pulled activates, a 120-decibel alarm – which aims to startle the attacker and attract attention. Stephen, who offered the alarms, which are all gone, through the Soho Facebook page, works full-time in the IT repair shop, with support from a part-time technician.
Alongside an internet café and vaping sales counter, Soho Solutions offers various office services and PC, laptop, phone and tablet repairs.
Soho Solutions is open Monday to Saturday 10am to 6om, visit Soho Solutions Facebook page for more.
