PFCC funds free training to help recognise signs of domestic abuse
Would you know how to spot the subtle signs someone you know is the victim of domestic abuse?
If you did, would you be confident in providing the appropriate support to that person, at the right time and in the safest way?
Free training is being offered across Essex to ensure everyone is equipped to respond appropriately and effectively if they suspect someone is a victim of domestic abuse or if someone reveals they are suffering abuse.
The J9 Domestic Abuse initiative was named in memory of Janine Mundy who was killed by her estranged husband while on police bail and set up by her family and local police in Cornwall.
The Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex (PFCC) is contributing £30,000 to the project to enable Essex residents to continue to receive the training free of charge.
The Community 9 Domestic Abuse Initiative brings training to all residents who are keen to recognise domestic abuse and learn how to respond to survivors.
Caroline Wiggins, Directorate Specialist at Epping Forest District Council, said: “We are keen for more community groups – such as residents’ groups, school governors and older youth groups – to get involved. Anyone with an interest in community safety or wellbeing would find this training of interest.
“But, essentially, the training is for everyone in the community. It could help you to identify that a work colleague is living with domestic abuse. You could be worried about a friend’s daughter or a family member and don’t know where to turn or how – or if – you should reach out and help.
“The training will help you to understand coercive control and domestic abuse. We all have that gut instinct when we feel something doesn’t feel quite right, but maybe we don’t always know what is not right about the situation. Maybe your friend comes out for a drink, but receives ten text messages about their whereabouts, or their partner turns up uninvited.
“We make excuses for people, but when you have your eyes opened to what is going on around you and to domestic abuse, it enables you to have a safe conversations.”
The free, hour-long, online awareness raising sessions equip attendees with the tools to recognise abuse, respond appropriately and help people access the support they need.
Of the funding from the PFCC, Caroline said: “The PFCC in Essex is really committed to supporting victims of domestic abuse. It is amazing.
“This is a passion of mine and is really important work. There is lots of ongoing work across Essex to support victims, but the more we can support the community, hopefully we can stop it getting to high risk and stop the tragedies.”
Following the training, attendees receive access to a J9 information pack – featuring information on local and national support services – which they can make available to anyone who might need it.
Roger Hirst, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, said: “Breaking the cycle of domestic abuse is one of the priorities in our Police and Crime Plan. Working together with partners across the county, our objective is to help those who suffer in silence and reduce the impact on children and families. The J9 training helps people recognise the signs and indicators of domestic abuse and gives victims confidence that they will get the help and support they need. It really is a great initiative and one that we are proud to support.”
To find out more about the virtual daytime and evening sessions, email [email protected]
