Domestic Abuse and Violence Workshop
To tackle domestic abuse and domestic violence at its root, it is vital that young people are introduced to the subject at an early age and develop an understanding of what domestic abuse and violence are, how to recognise it in relationships – both their own and in their peers’ – and how to escape and seek help.
2020 Dreams Domestic Abuse and Violence workshops present the facts about domestic violence and abuse in an age-appropriate way, using role-plays and open forum discussions, among other effective teaching methods. Our experienced facilitators are skilled in engaging with young people, helping them to explore this challenging topic in depth.
Among the facts about domestic violence and abuse that pupils attending a 2020 Dreams workshop will learn are the various forms in which it can manifest, from overt physical attacks to humiliation, blackmail, isolation, coercion and restricting freedom.
Key Statistics*
- In 2017-18, 7.1% of women and 4.4% of men reported having experienced domestic abuse in that year (equivalent to 1.2m women and 700 000 men).
- Nearly a third of women (30%) and 16.3% of men reported having experienced some kind of domestic abuse since the age of 16 (equivalent to 4.9m women and 2.7m men).
- Women and men aged between 16 and 19 and 20 to 24 were more likely to be victims of domestic abuse than those in any other age group.
*From the Office for National Statistics: Intimate Personal Violence and Partner Abuse: England and Wales, 2019.
Domestic Abuse and Violence in the National Curriculum
Domestic abuse can be taught under both the Citizenship and Sex and Relationship Education components of the National Curriculum for Key Stages Three and Four (although 2020 Dreams can also tailor workshops for Primary School age children).
The National Curriculum guidelines on Citizenship tuition states that teachers need to equip pupils to, “take their place in society as responsible citizens.” In Key Stage Four in particular, the government expects pupils to deepen their understanding of human rights, how the law deals with complex social problems and the importance of understanding and mutual respect.
Understanding the facts about domestic violence, including how it infringes on human rights, how the law is constantly evolving to address the problem and how we can overcome it through developing mutual respect encompasses this whole area. The facts about domestic violence and abuse should also form a part of any comprehensive Sex and Relationship Education programme.
Learning About Healthy and Unhealthy Relationships
Since adults can become unwittingly caught up in unhealthy relationships, it is even more understandable that teenagers and young adults, who are still exploring their connections with others, can become trapped in domestic abuse situations. In addition, domestic abuse also covers abuse between family members which can affect anyone.
2020 Dreams domestic violence and abuse workshops look at the latest facts about domestic violence, including the new Home Office definitions and the recognition of the part coercion plays in many unhealthy relationships. Our facilitators will present the issues in terms that the particular student group can understand. For example, coercive behaviour might include monitoring of a partner’s texts and social media communications.
Helping Young People to Speak Out
Often, young people know there is a problem in their relationships or in their home environment but are unable to find the words to express their concerns or don’t know who to turn to for help.
The format of 2020 Dreams interactive workshops helps young people to overcome their inhibitions and talk about their experiences and explore difficult areas in a non-threatening environment.
Part of presenting the facts about domestic violence also includes understanding when and how to involve other people, including the police, and what external agencies and resources are available for young people. For example, 16 or 17 year olds can now use women’s refuges.
