School pupils in London are to be given training on healthy relationships (David Jones/PA)
(Picture: PA Wire)School pupils in London are to be given training on healthy relationships and how to spot sexism and misogyny as part of a City Hall-funded scheme.
Every secondary school, college, community group and faith group in London will have access to the violence against women and girls (VAWG) prevention toolkit, which will provide “allyship training” to young people.
The toolkit will connect teachers with workshop leaders from domestic abuse charity Tender, who will deliver training that will highlight the impact of misogyny and encourage young people — including boys — to call out sexist attitudes and behaviour if they see it.
It comes following a £1 million investment from Mayor of London Sadiq Khan and is part of a wider £100 million package aimed at ending violence against women and girls in the capital.
Speaking ahead of the launch of the new scheme at the Rokeby School in Newham today, Mr Khan said the “onus of responsibility” must be placed on men and boys to change their attitudes and behaviour “if we are truly going to fix the problem of violence against women and girls”.
He said: “In London and across the country we face an epidemic of violence against women and girls. As well as taking action against the perpetrators of violence, I’m determined that we do more to prevent and end the violence and misogyny too many women face on a daily basis.”
According to government figures, one in five women across the UK have experienced sexual assault or attempted assault, while 27 per cent of women aged 16 or over had experienced domestic abuse.
Susie McDonald, chief executive of domestic abuse charity Tender, said: “There has never been a more pressing time for children and young people to learn about healthy relationships and gender equality.
“Schools create the perfect environment in which young people can learn about these issues in a safe, non-judgemental and age appropriate way. But for teachers, it is essential that they feel confident and equipped with the correct knowledge and skills to deliver this type of education.”
