Young people shown what healthy relationships look like and how to be respectful partners, conference hears

Posted 8th February Delegates at the Southend, Essex & Thurrock Domestic Abuse Board (SETDAB) Diverse Experiences of Domestic Abuse conference heard how The Essex Youth Service is working in collaboration with young people from Good Man and Sisters in Strength to help to encourage healthy relationships, with a new animation coming soon to amplify key messages. Good Man and Sisters in Strength are mentoring programmes for boys and young men and girls and young women aged ten to 18, delivered as a group and on a one-to-one basis. They are for young people who are at risk of entering into abusive relationships in the future or are already in an abusive relationship. They cover making relationships work, relationships in a digital world, confidence, manners and respect, consequences and healthy relationships. The programmes look to educate young people about the value of respect and the characteristics of a healthy and unhealthy relationship, equipping them with the skills to develop and maintain healthy relationships and recognise how to break-up in an appropriate way when necessary. Bryony Nancollas, targeted youth advisor, told the conference: “We create safe environments so that young people can share their experiences. “With Sisters in Strength, we are empowering young women to find their voice in a safe way. We encourage journalling to help them to process their experiences.” Tony Brennan, targeted youth advisor, said: “Through our youth work, we can honour and respect the lived experiences of young people. “If our work starts a conversation for someone, it has been worthwhile.” The SETDAB conference brought together victim-survivors and the support services available.