East Lancashire partners join forces to tackle violence against women and girls

Through the LVRN’s Champions programme, funded by Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw, a need was identified to address the values and behaviours some young people hold towards women and girls. Many of the young people engaged have witnessed or committed violence at home, often against their mothers, viewing this behaviour as learned or believing it is their responsibility to ‘step up’ as the ‘man of the house.’ These attitudes frequently carry over into schools, where teenage girls can become especially vulnerable to abuse, often struggling to recognise the signs or know where to turn for help.

The event, attended by around 30 young people aged 13-16, created a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental environment to challenge and reshape harmful beliefs. Workshops encouraged young men to reflect on their language and behaviour choices, while also providing education to help young women better understand the signs of abuse and access the right support.

Annie Scott, Programme Manager of the LVRN Champions Programme, said: “We know that harmful behaviours and attitudes towards women and girls often begin at a young age, influenced by what young people see at home or in their communities. This event gave us the chance to challenge those attitudes in a safe and supportive way, equipping young people with the tools to make positive choices. By working together with schools, partners, and the community, I hope we can help break the cycle of abuse and create safer futures for everyone.”

Sessions included:
• Talks from youth mentors, police, and lived-experience speakers.
• Workshops and interactive activities focused on respect, relationships, and healthy choices.
• Information about Clare’s Law and how people can use it.
• Support and information from partner organisations including The Wish Centre, Red Rose Recovery, HARV, Child and Family
Wellbeing service, and Hyndburn Safer Neighbourhoods Team.

Sergeant Mick Johnson, Lancashire Constabulary and East Serious Violence Lead for the Violence Reduction Network, said: “Tackling violence against women and girls is a priority for Lancashire Constabulary and the Violence Reduction Network. Early intervention is key, and this event demonstrates the importance of engaging with young people at the right time. By working closely with partners and the community, we can create a culture of respect and safety where women and girls are protected and valued.”

“The event underlines the importance of partnership working and highlights the VRN’s priorities of ensuring that young people receive the education, support, and opportunities they need to grow up in communities free from violence and abuse.
Police and Crime Commissioner, Clive Grunshaw added: “We must protect women and girls from violence, and events like this are vital because they don’t just raise awareness, they help change lives.

“While we’re still analysing the results of our recent survey into how safe women and girls feel in Lancashire, it’s already clear that educating young men to reflect on their language and behaviour is essential to driving meaningful change.

“By engaging with young people early, we can challenge harmful behaviours before they escalate and help build a future where everyone feels safe, respected, and heard. I’m proud to support this work and the strong partnerships making it possible.”