28
Mar
2014
By Calvin at 10:56 GMT, 12 years ago
Hertfordshire is aiming to raise awareness amongst young people about domestic abuse and what makes a healthy relationship.
Young people from schools across Hertfordshire helped to get the message out by writing radio scripts for an advert that was broadcast on radio station Jack FM.
Traditionally, domestic abuse campaigns are aimed at adults, but it isn’t just an adult issue – young people can be both victims and perpetrators. Hertfordshire wants to raise awareness amongst young people due to an increasing awareness of issues around teenage relationships including violence, exploitation - and emotional abuse using social media.
‘True Love?’ is a campaign aimed at reducing abuse amongst young people. It was originally launched in November 2012 and was re-launched for Valentine’s Day this year.
Since its launch in November 2012, police have seen an increase in the number of reported domestic abuse incidents – particularly amongst the 16/17 year old age group. Figures indicate an increase of 5.3 per cent in reporting figures for this age group with an overall increase of 11 per cent for overall crime.
Detective Chief Inspector Clare Smith from the Harm Reduction Unit based at Hatfield Police station, which investigates cases of domestic abuse, harassment and stalking, said: “We welcome this increase in reporting figures, particularly in the 16/17 year age group as it indicates that more people are becoming aware of abuse in relationships and have the confidence to report it."
To see the True Love presentation, click HERE. This link opens up a PowerPoint Presentation. You can use the 'up' and 'down' arrows on your keyboard to scroll through the different slides on the presentation.
When the campaign was originally launched, students across the county were invited to write a script for a radio advert (either individually or in groups) depicting abuse following one of three themes:
• Abuse between a young couple
• Young people witnessing abuse at home
• Cyber-abuse – via social media
Recent awareness through the media and training sessions available to educational establishments will ensure that awareness of this topic continues to be raised.
For Your Help....
If you live in Hertfordshire and are in need of information and support around any kind of abuse, visit www.hertssunflower.org or free phone them on 08 088 088 088 10am to 10pm, Monday to Friday.
All young people needing help can call Childline https://www.childline.org.uk/Pages/Home.aspx on 0800 1111.
Also visit the Government’s website ‘This is Abuse’ http://thisisabuse.direct.gov.uk/
Source: Hertfordshire Constabulary http://www.herts.police.uk/advice/true_love.aspx
