Personal Safety for Women

Fortunately attacks on women by strangers are a comparatively rare event in this District. The majority of assaults on women are committed by people who they know. The most common violent assault is domestic violence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the position regarding attacks on women in the Maldon District?
Violent assaults on women often bring severe emotional as well as physical injuries and so are treated as very serious offences by the police and the judicial system. Convicted offenders normally receive a prison sentence.

If attacks are rare, why are so many women worried about being attacked?
As violent assaults on women are rare they tend to feature prominently in local newspapers, radio and television. Regular mention of assaults tends to make them appear to be frequent events rather than reality that they are rare. Whilst the rarity should prevent an excessive fear of crime it is important to take sensible precautions to ensure that you do not become a victim.

If I am attacked, what should I do?
It's good that you are thinking about action now. Being attacked can be so traumatic that the victim does nothing as they can't think what to do. It may be unpleasant to think about being attacked but if you have considered possible courses of action it may gain you a vital few seconds that can prevent an attack.

If someone threatens me?
Shout, scream, use your personal attack alarm. Not only will this draw attention and bring possible help but it could unnerve the attacker and frighten them off. Try to put a physical barrier i.e. a car or a fence between you and the person.

Don't panic – If you keep a clear head you are more likely to be able to think of a way to escape. Go to somewhere safe where other members of the public are i.e. a shop. If other people are in the area that you ask for help, approach a woman before approaching a man.

If you have a car get in and lock all of the doors. Use your mobile phone to call for help before the situation escalates.

Try to remember what the person looks like. Essex Police will ask for a full description including height, hair, clothes, voice and any other identifying features.

Can I defend myself?
The law allows you to use reasonable force to defend yourself although you are not allowed to carry offensive weapons such as knives or mace spray. You can use items that you may carry i.e. an umbrella, car keys or even a hairspray. The use of force as resistance should only be used to gain time to make an escape.

If I am attacked, what support will I receive?
Support will be available from specially trained Essex Police Officers who specialise in providing support through all stages from initial investigation to trial. Other material support can range from protective equipment, alarms, to re-housing in very serious cases. The Victim Support Scheme will also provide support to victims.