Find out vital information in Southend tomorrow, Tuesday 25th November, about domestic abuse issues and support for victims – especially for older people.

Southend Domestic Abuse Strategy Group is staging an interactive community event from 10am until 5pm at The Forum Southend-on-Sea in Elmer Square, Southend.

This marks Domestic Abuse Awareness Day – a national campaign – which in 2014 particularly focuses on how older people may be affected.

Members of the partnership agencies of Southend Domestic Abuse Strategy Group will be on hand to explain to people what defines domestic abuse, how to spot the signs of it, and how to help older people discover the options and support available.

The Group has also produced an accompanying leaflet to be shared widely, especially with those who work with older people.

As part of the campaign, people are invited to wear a white ribbon on Tuesday 25th November as a pledge not to commit, condone or remain silent about Domestic Abuse.

This special date is the International End Violence Against Women Day, established by the United Nations in 1999.

Executive Councillor for Community Development, Councillor Ian Gilbert said: “Our aim is to highlight Domestic Abuse and the devastating impact it has.

“We need to challenge the idea that domestic abuse is just about physical violence and we want to flag up all the services available in Southend to support victims, their families and friends.

“It is important for everyone to know that domestic abuse can happen to anyone – including older people – and you can get support.

“Research shows older people are also victims of domestic abuse but that the issue is under-reported or, if it is reported, older victims may not get the support and help they need.”

In addition, young people are being alerted to these issues too.

A powerful theatre workshop which takes a hard look at unhealthy relationships is touring Southend secondary schools until Friday 28th November.

Called Prince Charming, the workshop aimed at young people in years eight to 11, is led by the Leigh-based Outloud Productions http://www.outloudproductions.co.uk/ The Council will also be raising awareness of domestic abuse through social media all week – Follow @SouthendBC and #DomesticAbuseAwarenessWeek • To report domestic abuse, in an emergency call 999 • If it is not an emergency call 101 • Domestic Abuse dedicated non-emergency number - 0800 3580351 • For Safer Places – refuges or accommodation in the community - 0845 0177668 • Southend on Sea Domestic Abuse Projects – for women 01702 302333 • South East Essex Advocacy for Older People - 01702 340566 • Or call the Ask SAL Helpline on 08452 666663