Students at New College Swindon have been learning about healthy relationships as part of this year’s international 16 Days of Action campaign, which calls for an end to domestic abuse and violence against women and girls.
Society Without Abuse (SWA) has been working closely with young people across both of the college’s campuses, delivering lessons on what a healthy relationship looks like, how to spot early warning signs of abuse, and how to manage conflict. Students have also been exploring consent and boundaries, with SWA experts on hand to offer information, guidance and support.
Young people aged 16–25 are currently the fastest-growing group at risk of domestic abuse. SWA says early education is essential in helping students recognise red flags, understand consent and communicate clearly, giving them the tools to build safe, respectful relationships now and in the future.
In December, SWA will team up with fellow domestic abuse services Paragon and FearFree to run two free online training sessions. One is aimed at professionals such as teachers, youth workers and support services. The other is designed for parents and carers, who can submit questions in advance for the panel to answer.
“Education is a powerful prevention tool,” said Emma Maclennan, children and families manager for SWA. “By engaging directly with young people, as well as the adults in their lives, we are helping build a future where healthy, respectful relationships are the norm and where abuse has no place.”
SWA also runs the HOPE Award, a programme for schools and colleges that show a strong commitment to promoting healthy relationships and raising awareness of domestic abuse. Nine schools across Swindon have already completed the award, with more, including New College, working towards it.
“New College has demonstrated a commitment to ensuring that their students receive education and guidance on healthy relationships throughout their time at college,” added Emma. “The emphasis that the college is putting on creating a better future for their students is incredibly positive and we look forward to presenting them with their award soon.”
Parents and professionals can register for the free December training sessions via Eventbrite.
If you need advice for yourself or a friend relating to domestic abuse, call Swindon’s domestic abuse helpline on 01793 610610.
To find out more about SWA visit www.societywithoutabuse.org.uk.
