New project to tackle sexual violence in North Wales schools

The initiative, named 'Don't Steal My Future', is set to educate youngsters about the dangers of grooming, pornography, and misogyny.

It has been funded by the North Wales Serious Violence Response Strategy and will be rolled out across schools in the region.

On October 24, North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Andy Dunbobbin visited Ysgol Bryn Elian in Colwyn Bay to see the project's impact on students.

The project was developed in response to the murder of Sarah Everard, with the aim of countering sexual violence in society.

It is delivered in a workshop format, lasting up to three hours, providing 'interactive learning with real-life examples.'

The initiative educates young attendees about sexual violence, its prevalence, and its impact on survivors, offenders, and their families.

At Ysgol Bryn Elian, the workshop was delivered to more than 100 Year 8 pupils.

It began with a quiz to test their understanding of laws and issues surrounding sexual violence, grooming, and consent.

The discussion then shifted to 'positive standards of behaviour' and identifying male role models who respect women and contribute positively to society.

Maria Senior, a teacher at Ysgol Bryn Elian, emphasised the importance of the project as part of the school’s Relationship and Sexuality Education (RSE) curriculum.

The project is organised by the Rape & Sexual Abuse Support Centre North Wales (RASASC) and is 'well-adapted to suit young audiences.'

Delivered through a workshop format lasting up to three hours, the project provides interactive learning with age-appropriate information and real-life examples (Image: Supplied)

Andy Dunbobbin, the Police and Crime Commissioner for North Wales, said: "Sexual violence is a scourge across society and something that we all need to recognise and confront.

"People can be exposed to, or be victims of, sexual violence from a young age, and it’s important that we raise awareness in an age-appropriate and careful way with young people so that we can keep them safe.

"Projects like Don’t Steal My Future are vital, and it was encouraging to see the young people’s response to the message."

Statistics show that in 2022-23, North Wales Police recorded more than 30,000 violence-related offences.

Though this marks a decrease from previous years, Commissioner Dunbobbin aims to further reduce this figure through 'proactive initiatives.'

Gaynor McKeown, CEO of RASASC North Wales, said: "Don’t Steal My Future is a unique programme addressing sexual violence and abuse, reflecting the challenges children and young people face today.

"Our vision is to challenge attitudes and foster a societal shift to reduce the epidemic levels of sexual violence and violence against women and girls."

The funding received will enable the Don’t Steal My Future project to extend to Year 6 pupils in age-appropriate sessions.

To support the programme, referral pathways, resources, and additional training will be provided to staff to 'enhance awareness and facilitate disclosures.'

This expanded provision addresses a need identified by the Community Safety Partnership in Conwy and Denbighshire.

The project, managed by RASASC North Wales, offers specialised support and therapy from its Bangor base to anyone over age three affected by sexual abuse or violence, including partners and family members.

The North Wales Serious Violence Response Strategy, led by PCC Dunbobbin, works with communities and agencies to address and prevent serious violence.