Consent, pornography and how young people feel about Violence Against Woman and Girls (VAWG) were the big topics discussed at a Youth Conference yesterday, where young people across the city came together to discuss the issue.
As part of the 16 days of Activism the youth conference was organised by Councillor Zoe Reilly, Plymouth City Council’s Violence Against Women and Girls Champion.
The event gave secondary school-aged young people an equal and inclusive forum to discuss VAWG and understand what is being done across the city to combat the issue.
The young people were able to put their questions to a panel of experts, including; Plymouth City Council’s Youth Services, MAN Culture, Trevi, Devon Mental Health Alliance, First Light, NSPCC, The Zone, Plymouth Argyle Community Trust and Ahimsa.
Councillor Zoe Reilly, Plymouth’s Champion for Violence Against Women and Girls, said: “The aim of this event was to provide young people, both girls and boys, a safe space, so that they can have an open and appropriate discussion around the issue of VAWG. We want all young people to be and feel heard.
“It is so important that the conversation of VAWG continues. I wanted to show young people that we are listening and we want to offer them a space for them to talk, feel safe and protected.
“I am so grateful for the support that I have received from organisations across the city with this event.”
Darcy (17 years old), was one of the young people who attended. She said: “I think a lot of the time people don’t recognise how much of an issue VAWG is, you hear about it, but you don’t always educate yourself on it. That specifically resonated with me, particularly the work of MAN Culture.
She added: “I think it would be good to have more of these events so we can keep the conversation around VAWG going.
Amelia (15 years old), added: “Today I have learnt that we should always speak up if we need to, even if it can be very hard because you don’t know what someone’s reaction will be. I would recommend my friends to attend an event like this in the future. I feel that it is good that organisations have come together to support young people.”
During the 16 Days of Activism, there are a range of activities taking place. This includes awareness-raising events, such as a peaceful walk centred around campaigning for change, webinars held by the Police surrounding stalking, and Trevi’s city-wide outdoor media campaign. You can read more on the Council's website: 16 Days of Activism | PLYMOUTH.GOV.UK
The Council will work with others across the city to deliver tangible actions that will tackle violence against women and girls, domestic abuse and sexual violence. Read more here: Working together to end violence against women and girls | PLYMOUTH.GOV.UK