Young men supported to develop positive relationships and challenge harmful stereotypes in East Riding schools

Young men across the East Riding are being supported to build positive relationships and challenge harmful stereotypes about masculinity. 

Dave Brown, from Community Vision, is leading sessions in schools to support young men to develop positive attitudes towards relationships, respect, equality and emotional wellbeing. 

The activities are part of East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s dedication to the White Ribbon campaign. The White Ribbon Campaign, encourages everyone, including men, to speak out and take action in preventing violence against women and girls.  

The work explores issues such as Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), healthy relationships, consent, respect, gender stereotypes and harmful stereotypes about masculinity. It also creates safe opportunities for young men to talk openly about their experiences, attitudes and emotions. 

This includes the development of posters, videos and sound recordings, giving young men opportunities to share their thoughts and help challenge some of the negative messages and stereotypes they may encounter through social media, popular culture and wider society. 

Dave said: “It is really important that young males have opportunities to talk about what it means to be a positive role model and what healthy relationships actually look like.” 

“We want to challenge harmful stereotypes around masculinity while also giving young people a safe space to ask questions, express their views and learn from each other.” 

Councillor Lyn Healing, East Riding of Yorkshire Council Cabinet Member for Communities and Public Protection, said: “We’re dedicated to combatting violence against women and girls and raising awareness about this vital issue. This is a great scheme to educate young men and ensure healthy attitudes in the next generation.” 

The creative materials produced through the work are also intended to help take these important conversations beyond individual sessions. Posters, videos and audio recordings can provide young people with messages and voices that promote respect, equality and positive relationships. 

More information on the White Ribbon campaign can be found at https://www.eastriding.gov.uk/living/crime-and-community-safety/white-ribbon-campaign/   

If you are experiencing issues around this topic, please reach out. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 999 otherwise:  

You can report any VAWG crimes, sexual assault, harassment, stalking, or other VAWG related offences, to Humberside Police: Online Reporting: Report rape, sexual assault and other sexual offences | Humberside Police 

For support for adults, children or young people experiencing domestic violence or abuse, or wanting to change their harmful behaviours towards others in their relationships: East Riding Domestic Violence and Abuse Partnership can be found at https://www.eastriding.gov.uk/living/crime-and-community-safety/domestic-abuse/ or by calling 01482 396 358  

Author: tracey