Women's Safety Charter launched in Tendring

Businesses and organisations in the Clacton-on-Sea area will be trained to spot signs of intimidating behaviour towards women and girls in public spaces.

It is part of a new Women's Safety Charter launched by Tendring District Council.

The charter, which companies are being urged to support, aims to ensure women and girls feel safe, supported and respected while out and about.

"Tackling violence against women is one of our main community safety priorities," said Peter Kotz, a Labour councillor with a responsibility for community safety.

Kotz added: "Our aim is to increase support for victims and survivors, bring more perpetrators to justice and reduce the prevalence of violence against women and girls."

A 2025 study by Girlguiding found that 68% of girls and young women aged 11-21 had changed their everyday behaviour to avoid sexual harassment.

The charter, launched in February at Clacton's Princes Theatre, was developed by the council in partnership with women's safety consultant Karen Whybro.

The council hopes it will strengthen the message that making women and girls feel unsafe in Tendring will not be tolerated.

It is funded by the Essex Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner's Safer Streets programme.

The first training sessions are on 13 March at 09:00 GMT at Clacton Town Hall.

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