Businesses and organisations across the Rochford district have received training to help combat domestic abuse.
The move forms part of J9, a campaign which aims to turn businesses into ‘access points’ where victims can go to get the help they need.
Participants hold information about the support available for domestic abuse victims, train employees in awareness of the issue, and make a phone available to those in need.
These access points can then be identified by the distinctive, heart-shaped J9 logo displayed in their window.
There are now 15 venues in the Rochford District signed up to the scheme, and training has also been provided to those who have contact with people in the community such as Family Mosaic, health visitors, and midwives.
One of the first participants in the Rochford District to sign up to this scheme was Wells Legal, a firm of solicitors in Hockley.
Andrew Wells, the senior partner of Wells Legal, said: “Once we were introduced to this superb idea, we jumped at the chance to provide a safe space for victims of domestic violence.
“This initiative then sits proudly alongside our other community support endeavours, such as Keep Safe which seeks to provide the same support as J9 but in a non-domestic violence context.
"It really doesn’t cost anything and we urge other businesses to quickly come on board so that as much coverage as possible is available to the vulnerable in our locality.”
The J9 initiative is named in memory of Janine Mundy who was killed by her estranged husband in June 2003 while he was on police bail. Janine was the mother of two young boys and used to sign her text messages J9.
Chairman of Rochford District Council, Cllr Mrs Carole Weston, said: “The beauty of J9 is in its simplicity – it can transform any local hairdresser, convenience store, or other business, into a ‘first port-of-call’ for those in need of help and support.
“Too often, domestic abuse happens behind ‘closed doors’ and victims feel they have nowhere to turn in their hour of need. Hopefully, this will demonstrate that they are not alone, and they have the support of the wider community.”
To report an incident of domestic abuse, or for support, call police on 101 or Safer Places on 03301 025811. Alternatively, visit essexvictimsgateway.org for other agencies in your locality that can provide support.
If you are interested in becoming a J9 contact point please email communitysafety@rochford.gov.uk
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here