A campaign which aims to empower older victims of domestic abuse to seek support has been launched.

The campaign, which started on Monday, is being led by the Southend, Essex and Thurrock Domestic Abuse Board (SETDAB), a group of key organisations working in partnership to tackle domestic abuse.

In Essex during 2016 and 2017 there were 2,985 reported incidents of domestic abuse suffered by over 55 year olds, an increase from 2015 and 2016 when the number of incidents was just under 1,500.

The campaign focuses on positive outcomes and how survivors have been able to take part in activities or do things they previously weren’t able to.

It has been developed by working directly with victims, whose stories and experiences are the central focus of the campaign.

Councillor and chairman of the SETDAB, Dick Madden, said: “Domestic abuse is never acceptable, whatever your age- this is the message we are sending to anyone that may be suffering.

“The latest figures are not only worrying, but unacceptable.

"This campaign aims to reach out to victims 55 and over and let them know that there is life after domestic abuse and that support is just a phone call away."

Victims are encouraged to call the 55 plus safety net for support on 01206 500584 or visit livingwellessex.org/55-plus.