A DOMESTIC violence One Stop Shop for South Essex is set to go ahead after a successful funding bid.

Funding of £500,000 will be used for two domestic violence coordinators 
who will help set up up the One Stop Shop and formulate bids for future funding to ensure the project remains viable in the future. 

The funding will also go towards 28 refuge spaces which would have otherwise been lost. 

Rochford District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Community, June Lumley, said: “This One Stop Shop will offer those going through difficult domestic abuse situations a safe refuge where they can get advice and help from trained professionals.This is another example of successful partnership working with our neighbouring authorities for the benefit of our residents”.

The One Stop Shop will involve staff from housing, CAB, domestic violence co-ordinators and Essex Police attending one day per week and taking a collaborative approach to tackling the issue.

Those fleeing or requiring advice regarding domestic violence issues will be seen and their issues often dealt with in a single day without the need for repeat signposting to other services.

The funding comes from the DCLG (Department for Communities and Local Government) after a successful joint bid by Rochford District Council, Basildon Borough Council, Thurrock Borough Council, SERICC (South Essex Rape and Incest Crisis Centre), Changing Pathways, Castle Point Borough Council, Brentwood Borough Council, Basildon and Thurrock Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) and Essex Police.