A campaign focusing on raising awareness of healthy and unhealthy relationships among under-18s and supporting the prevention of domestic abuse is being launched by Wiltshire Council and Swindon Borough Council to mark this year’s 16 Days of Action campaign.
Running from 25 November to 10 December, the campaign aims to help children and young people understand what a healthy relationship looks like, how to recognise red flags and where to go for support. Messages will be promoted across social media, schools and colleges, with a particular focus on early intervention and building confidence among young people to develop safe, respectful relationships.
This year’s campaign has been shaped through engagement with children and young people, who helped develop the key messages and social media content to ensure the information feels relevant and accessible to their age group.
Partner organisations involved include Wiltshire Council, Swindon Borough Council, the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, commissioned domestic abuse support services, and a range of local charities and community groups. Together, they will be sharing resources and guidance throughout the 16 days.
Topics being highlighted include the foundations of a healthy relationship, recognising unhealthy behaviours, building self-esteem, supporting friends and understanding how to set boundaries.
Online live talks for parents, carers and professionals will also be delivered by the commissioned domestic abuse support services, offering advice on how to spot warning signs and support young people both in person and online.
Additional resources for families will focus on communicating effectively, understanding risk factors and helping young people stay safe.
Councillor Jim Grant, Swindon Borough Council Cabinet Member for Communities and Partnerships, said, “Domestic abuse and violence against women and girls are serious issues that affect people of all ages and tackling them requires a united response from our whole community.
“White Ribbon Day and the 16 Days of Action campaign remind us that each of us has a role to play in challenging harmful behaviours, promoting respect and supporting those affected by abuse.”
He added, “The focus this year on healthy relationships among children and young people is particularly important. By helping our younger generation understand what respect, equality and consent look like, we can prevent abuse before it starts and build safer communities.”
In a joint statement, the commissioned domestic abuse support services for Swindon and Wiltshire – FearFree, Society Without Abuse and The You Trust – said that they see daily the impact of abuse on children and teenagers, whether in their own relationships or within the home.
They commented, “Every child deserves the right to grow up in a safe, loving and respectful environment, and we will continue to work for a South West where this is a reality for everyone.”
If you or someone you know is affected by domestic abuse, support is available.
You can contact FearFree at fearfree.org.uk/refer/wiltshire or by calling 01225 775276.
In an emergency, always call 999.
