Violence Against Women and Girls in focus for schools

Violence Against Women and Girls in focus for schools

Around 80 girls from eight Merseyside schools will today (Thursday 12 March) come together for an event focused on educating young people about Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG).

The session forms part of a month-long campaign in which all secondary school students across Merseyside receive VAWG presentations as part of their PHSE lessons.

Hosted by Merseyside Police in partnership with the LFC Foundation, the event has been created by Safer Schools Co-ordinator Faye Smith. Its aim is to highlight the work being done to tackle VAWG, keep women and girls safe, and build girls' confidence in their local police force.

Throughout the day, attendees will take part in workshops exploring healthy relationships, consent, self-esteem, online safety, exploitation, challenging harmful gender norms, and speaking up with confidence.

Workshops will be delivered by Merseyside Police's Cyber Team, Girls with Dreams, and Trinity Wellness, with Julie Dale sharing her lived experience. Guest speakers including Leanne Campbell, Megan Kimmance (Red Run) and Louise Ashton will also present, before a Q&A session with the girls.

Faye Smith, Safer Schools Co-ordinator at Merseyside Police, said: "Today's event is part of a month-long focus in schools across Merseyside, where we talk openly with young people about Violence Against Women and Girls.

"The work we do with young people is vital and these conversations help them understand what is and isn't acceptable, particularly around abusive or misogynistic behaviours.

"We have a real opportunity to make a difference, and we're committed to spreading that message. Events like this are about empowerment, giving girls the knowledge, confidence and voice to recognise their worth, challenge harmful behaviours and support one another."

Matt Parish, CEO of LFC Foundation said: "It's vital we work in partnership with Merseyside Police to help educate young people about the issues surrounding violence against Women and Girls, using the power of the Liverpool Football Club badge.

"Working in partnership is where real change can happen, and our Youth Interventions team do a fantastic job day to day in helping young people talk openly about this topic.

"Hosting events like this really helps us give young people the belief to challenge and support one another around this hugely important topic and real-life issue."