SETDAB conference – exploring the relationship between domestic abuse and suicide
Photo: SETDAB conference market place
SETDAB is hosted its annual conference in Chelmsford last week, focusing on the often overlooked connection between domestic abuse and suicide.
Supporting the UN 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence
The SETDAB annual conference recognises the work of partners to address domestic abuse and launches activity towards supporting the United Nations (UN) 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence, a global movement to end violence against women and girls.
Jane Gardner, Chair of SETDAB, and Deputy Police, Fire Crime Commissioner said, “The connection between domestic abuse and suicide is a devastating reality that demands our urgent attention and collective action. By bringing together experts, frontline workers, and advocates, we’re fostering the kind of collaboration that can save lives. We all hold a piece of the puzzle, and by uniting our knowledge and resources, we can better protect vulnerable individuals, support survivors, and create safer communities across Southend, Essex, and Thurrock.
By uniting voices from across sectors, the SETDAB conference serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of working together to protect the vulnerable and break the cycle of domestic abuse.”
Expert insights and data
Attendees heard from expert speakers who have worked tirelessly to bring visibility to this issue. Sharing their insights will help in understanding the complexities of suicide in relation to domestic abuse. Attendees also gained knowledge of the data linking domestic abuse to heightened suicide risk, reinforcing the importance of targeted intervention.
Speakers included Phyllis Daly, mother of Jessie Laverick. Jessie tragically lost her life at the age of 34 after enduring domestic abuse. Despite leaving her hometown to escape the abusive relationship, the violence escalated leading to her death. Phyllis fought for an Article Two inquest, where the coroner determined that Jessie’s mental illness stemmed from domestic abuse, recognising a link between domestic abuse and suicide. Jessie’s story has inspired a nationwide campaign to recognise and address the mental health impacts of domestic abuse.
Photo: main conference hall
16 Days of Activism across Essex
Throughout the UN 16 Days of Activism, events, workshops and initiatives will take place across Essex, aimed at empowering individuals to recognise, report and prevent domestic abuse.
Domestic abuse comes in many forms and destroys lives. It can happen to anyone, regardless of age, social background, gender, religion, sexuality, or ethnicity. For more information on SETDAB’s ongoing commitment to enable everyone to live a life free from all forms of domestic abuse please visit SETDAB’s website setdab.org.
Resources and support for all
Alongside offering support to victims of domestic abuse, Essex also provides services for those who use abusive behaviours, with the aim of effecting behaviour change, reducing the harm caused and working towards long-term reductions in domestic abuse.
These initiatives are part of Essex’s comprehensive, multi-agency approach to tackling domestic abuse, ensuring that victims have access to the protection, resources, and support they need to feel safe and rebuild their lives.
If you are affected by issues raised in this article, there is help available from your local domestic abuse service Essex Compass, call 0330 333 7 444.
If you are in immediate danger, always call 999.