Domestic abuse is being targeted by Essex Police and Essex County Council in a joint campaign launched today.

‘Standing Together’ aims to reduce the number of people in abusive relationships in the county.

In Essex last year 78 per cent of domestic incidents reported to the police were from women.

Domestic abuse can be physical, psychological, sexual or financial and can affect anyone. Both authorities have prioritised the crime, and are working with councils, the police and crime commissioner, charities and women’s refuges in a stand against domestic abuse.

Residents are also being asked to “tweet their feet” and upload a photo of their feet to Facebook and Twitter with the hashtags #tweetyourfeet and #notodomesticabuse to show they believe domestic abuse is wrong.

It is hoped the campaign will show the positive difference leaving an abusive relationship can lead to.

Chief constable Stephen Kavanagh said: “This campaign takes a completely new approach to domestic abuse communications.

“We have listened to men and women who have survived an abusive relationship and created content that is engaging, uplifting and positive. Generally, whenever you see domestic abuse campaigns, they are full of doom and gloom – women with black eyes, with their heads in their hands, looking depressed.

“This campaign is about empowerment. It’s about showing that there is life after domestic abuse and that both men and women can be empowered to leave an abusive situation, change their lives and move forward.

“Lots of people generally see domestic abuse campaigns and think to themselves ‘What’s that got to do with me? I’m not being abused’. However, this campaign gives everyone the chance to stand together against domestic abuse and say that it is wrong.”

Dick Madden, county councillor for children and families, added: “We are encouraging the whole community to get involved and stand with us against this crime.

“Domestic abuse is wrong and ruins lives, and we are committed to helping victims and reducing incidents.”

For information visit the Essex Police website, or to report domestic abuse call 101, or 999 in an emergency.

For information on the campaign or advice and guidance visit the Essex Police campaign site, click on the link at the top right of this page.

To report domestic abuse to Essex Police call 101, or 999 in an emergency.