Harlow domestic abuse charity sends letter to all election candidates

AN Essex domestic abuse charity has today sent a letter to all general election candidates in Essex to urge them to show how they will support survivors of abuse if elected.

The letter, written by Safer Places domestic abuse services based in Essex and Hertfordshire, was developed with the help of the survivors in their care who provided their wishes of what they’d like to see from candidates.

The letter’s recommendations included developing a clear plan of action to tackle domestic abuse in their constitution, committing to working with the police and judicial system, supporting local services, and ensuring survivors receive secure housing after leaving refuge.

The letter reads: “Domestic abuse is an extensive, urgent crisis that needs cooperation from all corners of society in order to eradicate it.

“As you set your priorities and strive to win over local residents, we believe it is vital for you to demonstrate what steps you will take to tackle domestic abuse in your constitution and the country as a whole.

“We look forward to your response and hearing the ways you will prioritize survivors of domestic abuse in your constituency, and we will share your response with the survivors in our care. It’s vital that their safety – and lives – are at the top of the agenda.”

The charity says that domestic abuse is a pressing issue, with 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6-7 men experiencing domestic abuse at some point in their lifetime, and an estimated 2.1 million people experiencing domestic abuse in the year ending 2023.

Janet Dalrymple, CEO of Safer Places, said: “As the survivors in our care get ready to cast their anonymous votes, unable to vote in their own name for fear of their safety being compromised, it serves as a reminder that our work is nowhere near complete.

“It is vital that all potential MPs from across the political spectrum demonstrate their commitment to ending domestic abuse.

“It’s not enough to simply state that they will tackle domestic abuse – we want to see action.”