Starting in School to End Domestic Abuse

Schools across South Tyneside are being encouraged to focus on domestic abuse this week as part of Domestic Abuse Awareness Week (22 - 26 November).

South Tyneside's young people chose domestic abuse for this year's campaign and the Young People's Parliament devised five lesson plans on the issue for schools to use during the week.

The lessons encourage people to think about what domestic abuse is, identify the signs and damaging effects of abusive and controlling relationships and consider appropriate ways to help and support.

Victoria Kilminster from the YPP said: "We recognse that domestic abuse is a sensitive subject but it is only by raising awareness and removing the stigma around it that we can help break the cycle of abuse.

"We think it's important to educate our peers about what healthy relationships are so that we can all recognise how to avoid certain behaviours and treat one another with dignity and respect.."

Domestic abuse can affect both men and women and can be physical, sexual, financial and emotional. Work to tackle the issue is in line with the Council's priority of supporting families.

Councillor Adam Ellison, Lead Member for Children, Young People and Families, said: "Domestic abuse can sometimes be viewed as an invisible crime because much of it goes on behind closed doors.

"However, domestic abuse can devastate lives both for the abused and sadly children who often witness the abuse.

"Our Young People's Parliament is to be commended for seeking to raise awareness about such a complex and sensitive issue."