COMMUNITY groups are being given specialist training in a bid to tackle gang culture across Essex.

The events, held at the Rayleigh Club, in Hullbridge Road, Rayleigh, have been organised by Rochford District Council and Castle Point Council.

Safeguarding vulnerable people from harm has been highlighted as a priority by the Community Safety Partnership across Rochford and Castle Point. Funding for these sessions was provided to the partnership by the office of Police and Crime Commissioner Roger Hirst.

The workshops were attended by the Castle Point and Rochford Community Policing Team, officers from the councils, school staff, social care and health professionals and youth workers.

The sessions were run by Gavin McKenna, an ex-gang member who now works to raise awareness.

Rochford District Council’s member for community, June Lumley, said: “These were extremely valuable sessions which gave local organisations a real insight into gang culture and the surrounding issues.

“Although we are not currently experiencing these types of issues in the Rochford district itself, the purpose of these sessions was to enable these organisations to spot the early warning signs and take action where necessary.”