A Southend-based domestic abuse service has been recognised for the vital work they do with a BBC Essex Make a Difference award, after being nominated by a survivor who they helped.
Safe Steps is commissioned by Southend-on-Sea City Council as an organisation that offers a range of services to support women, men, young people and children across Southend, Essex and Thurrock, to rebuild their lives following domestic abuse.
The Make a Difference awards were created by the BBC as a way of recognising the hard work and selflessness of people during the pandemic. The awards take place regionally, and the BBC Essex’s event happened on Thursday 21 September.
A spokesperson from Safe Steps: “We’re so thankful for this award and the survivor who nominated us was just so grateful for the help we gave her and she spoke so well about us, it was lovely.
“Each case that comes into us is treated individually because everyone has a unique experience. And there are different types of abuse, there’s elder abuse, financial abuse, sexual abuse, it isn’t always physical. And it can come from a variety of different sources, a family member, partner, ex-partner, friend, regardless of gender or sexual preference; domestic abuse knows no limits.
“We’re pleased the work we do has been recognised, especially as we seem to be needed more than ever, but while we’re glad to be able to help really we wish that there was no need for anyone to have to escape domestic abuse in the first place.”
Speaking about the service and the award, Cllr James Moyies, cabinet member for public health, adult social care and constitutional affairs, said: “It’s great that the service we commission to help some of our vulnerable residents escape abuse, has won a regional award. This is a well-deserved award that recognises the valuable work that Safe Steps delivers on our behalf.”
If you are living with domestic abuse and need support, you can contact Essex COMPASS domestic abuse helpline which is part of Safe Steps. COMPASS is the first point of call for anyone over the age of 16 living in Essex who might be experiencing abuse. Call 0330 333 7 444 or refer online on theEssex Compass website. If you want to find out more about Safe Steps and it is safe for you to do so, you can visit www.safesteps.org.
However you reach out, a fully trained member of the team will get you the most suitable help, advice and support.