PFCC Roger Hirst backs Sexual Abuse & Sexual Violence Awareness Week 2026

Roger Hirst MBE, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (PFCC) for Essex, has reaffirmed that sexual abuse and violence is not acceptable in Essex as part of the Sexual Abuse & Sexual Violence Awareness Week, taking place from 2nd - 8th February 2026.

Mr Hirst said: “Sexual abuse and sexual violence have no place in our society. This week reminds us of the vital importance of support, prevention and creating a culture where victims feel safe to come forward.

“Essex stands firmly with survivors, with our partners and with the communities who work tirelessly to prevent harm.”

For anyone who has been a victim of sexual violence or abuse, the PFCC commission specialist services delivered by Synergy Essex - a partnership of rape and sexual abuse centres in Essex who deliver specialist community-based services in for victims and survivors of all forms of sexual violence and abuse, sexual domestic violence, sexual harassment and child sexual abuse. Support services can be accessed at Sexual violence support and advice Essex or Phone 0300 003 7777.

The PFCC is also highlighting the measures in place to support safety in pubs, bars, clubs and hospitality venues across Essex.

Ask for Angela - Essex continues to champion the ‘Ask for Angela’ campaign—a discreet safety initiative to help anyone who feels unsafe, at risk, or vulnerable on a night out. Venues trained in the scheme respond immediately when someone “asks for Angela”, providing support, safe exit routes, or contacting security or police where necessary askforangela.co.uk.

Ask for Clive - the PFCC is equally proud to promote ‘Ask for Clive’, which partners with venues to create welcoming, zero‑tolerance spaces for LGBTQ+ communities. With more than 3,000 UK supporters, the initiative helps pubs and clubs openly signal that discrimination, abuse or hate will not be tolerated askforclive.com.

Anti‑spiking and personal safety messages - Mr Hirst is also encouraging the public —particularly those enjoying the night‑time economy—to remain vigilant around the risks of drink spiking and to look out for friends, colleagues and fellow venue‑goers. Essex Police continue enforcement and prevention activity, with venues trained to recognise signs of distress and respond quickly to reports of spiking.

Workplace and Lone‑Worker Safety – Suzy Lamplugh Trust - the PFCC is taking this opportunity to encourage employers across Essex to consider the safety of lone workers—particularly those in public‑facing roles. The Suzy Lamplugh Trust provides comprehensive guidance on assessing risks, putting in place communication tools, panic systems and buddy arrangements, and helping staff feel safer and more confident when working alone suzylamplugh.org.

Mr Hirst added, “Everyone - whether out in the community, socialising at night, or working alone - deserves to feel safe. These campaigns offer practical tools that genuinely help people, and I urge organisations and venues across Essex to get involved.”