Ruth Edwards MP is encouraging local communities and businesses to sign up to the J9 Safer Spaces training session which is running from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM on 25 February 2021.
J9 – founded in memory of Janine Mundy who was tragically murdered by her ex-husband while he was on parole – equips individuals and organisations with the awareness and tools needed to effectively support survivors of domestic abuse and help them to access professional services.
The MP for Rushcliffe is working with campaigner Nicky Brindley to deliver the training, which is supported by Rushcliffe Borough Council and Nottinghamshire Police. Together they hope to build a network of safer spaces across the constituency. Since the start of the scheme here in Rushcliffe, 56 people have undertaken the training. Training is free and delivered online. You can sign up here.
Once staff have been J9 trained, the J9 logo is displayed on the organisation’s premises, letting survivors know that they have a safe place to access information and use a telephone to contact support services.
Commenting ahead of the training session, Ruth Edwards MP said:
“Domestic abuse is far more widespread than people may think, and we have seen incidents rising over the pandemic. Tragically it is believed to claim the lives of two women every week.”
“Ensuring that local communities are able to connect with survivors and help them to access professional help- could be what ultimately saves a person’s life.”
Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) J9 Lead for Nottinghamshire, Nicky Brindley MBE, said:
“Domestic Abuse does not discriminate and can affect anyone, it is vital that support is available in local communities. The J9 initiative really does save lives. The training is free and I would encourage any local business, charity or organisation to sign up for the training.”
Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner, Paddy Tipping said:
“Domestic abuse effects all sections of society. We all have a responsibility to take action to tackle it. That’s why training sessions like this are so important. Come along and make a difference.”
Leader of Rushcliffe Borough Council, Cllr Simon Robinson said:
“I would encourage all businesses and organisations to sign up to this free training and help build a network of safer spaces here in Rushcliffe for those suffering domestic abuse.
The J9 initiative is a vital way to reach out to anyone seeking support. COVID-19 has seen the demand for domestic abuse helplines and charities surge by a third in some cases. There’s never been a more crucial time to support this work.”
To date, J9 has trained over 3,000 professionals, including Job Centres, GPs, local authorities and police volunteers to veterinary services, hairdressers and even the Barbican theatre. Please consider signing up; you could make all the difference to a survivor of domestic abuse.
