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Safety and Risk

Guidance from National Bodies

Additional Resources

Operation Ford

Operation Ford is a national policing programme that supports elected representatives who are targeted because of their public role. Reporting incidents promptly is important, as it allows Essex Police to assess any risks and put appropriate support or safeguarding measures in place as early as possible. 

Councillors are encouraged to report any concerns, threats or incidents, however minor they may appear, so that an accurate intelligence picture can be developed, using this email address: Op.Bridger@essex.police.uk (‘Bridger’ is the equivalent of Operation Ford for MPs, but the same contact details are used). Of course, if there are immediate concerns about your safety, or that of another person, then 999 should be used.  

Essex Police will be offering personal safety briefings covering topics such as personal security, home security, online safety and managing risks associated with public office. Further details will be circulated once arrangements have been finalised. 

Immediate contacts for any safety and risk concerns:

Employee Assistance Programme

Resources include ECC's Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) can be found here. This provides ECC employees, fixed term employees, and their family members access to information, advice and counselling on a variety of personal and workplace issues. The service is available 365 days a year 24/7.

Lone Working

Information regarding health and safety for lone workers can be found here.

If you would like to request a lone working fob, please contact Sophie Crane, sophie.crane@essex.gov.uk, 03330134555.