A new Women’s Safety Charter has been launched as part of Tendring’s commitment to ensuring women and girls feel safe, supported and respected wherever they go.

Unveiled to local businesses at the Princes Theatre on Tuesday (24 February), the charter was developed by Tendring District Council (TDC) in partnership with Brand Elect and women’s safety consultant Karen Whybro.

Funded by the Essex Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner’s Safer Streets programme, it follows extensive consultation in which women and girls shared experiences of feeling unsafe in public spaces, highlighting behaviours – including low level harassment – that create discomfort or fear.

Businesses and organisations across Tendring are being invited to pledge their support, helping to build a safer and more respectful environment. Those signing up will receive free training and guidance to help staff recognise and respond to inappropriate behaviour and ensure their venue is a welcoming space for all.

Research shows women are more likely to visit places with clear anti harassment and equality policies, and feel safer where there is a visible zero tolerance approach to misogyny.

Councillor Peter Kotz, TDC Cabinet Member for Community Safety, said the charter will strengthen the message that behaviours making women and girls feel unsafe in Tendring will not be tolerated.

“Women and girls in Tendring deserve to feel safe everywhere — in our town centres, on our streets and in the places they visit every day,” he said.

“Tackling violence against women is one of our main community safety priorities. 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.

“This charter reinforces that commitment, and I urge all local organisations to get involved.

“We’re calling on businesses to back the charter and prioritise women’s safety by making their spaces safe, respectful and inclusive.

“We remain committed to working with our partners to improve quality of life, tackle crime, disorder and ASB, and create a district where people and communities can flourish.”

The launch follows TDC’s adoption of its new Crime and Disorder Reduction Strategy 2025–28, created with the Tendring Community Safety Partnership (CSP), which identifies tackling violence against women and girls and domestic abuse as a key priority.

The first training session for businesses and organisations will take place on Thursday. 13 March. at 9am at Clacton Town Hall, with further sessions planned throughout the year. A wider public launch of the charter will follow later in 2026.

Businesses can register their interest and sign the pledge here or by scanning the QR code below.

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