AN organissation which aims to make life safer for people in Basildon will be delivering a series of free personal safety sessions for residents over the next few months.

The sessions organised by the Safer Basildon Partnership are to help increase confidence amongst the community, to make nervous or anxious residents feel safer when out and about in public spaces. There will be 10 separate sessions available for residents aged 16 and over to book onto.

Starting on 29 January, the sessions will take place between 2-4pm every Saturday up until 2 April from the Happy Hub within Basildon's Eastgate Centre.

Safer Basildon is a partnership between the council and local authorities including Essex Police and Essex Fire and Rescue, with the aim to improve the lives of residents by reducing crime and disorder, tackling anti-social behaviour, and reducing re-offending in the borough.

Leader of Basildon Council and Chairman of the Public Order and Enforcement Committee Cllr Andrew Baggott said: "Safer Basildon do some brilliant work in the borough and this is a great example of that. I'm glad that we're able to put all these sessions on for our residents, for free.

"We want to help those who may feel nervous and lack confidence, to regain that, build resilience, and feel more equipped to go about their daily lives.

"These sessions could be invaluable for some residents – if you think they may be beneficial for you, please take the leap and book yourself onto one."

There are 20 places available for each of the 10 sessions, and places are allocated on a first come first serve basis. To book your spot click this link.