Violence Against Women and Girls - Schools Media Challenge

Somerset and North Somerset are safe places to live, and we want to make sure it stays that way.  But violence against women and girls is a growing concern, affecting much younger girls than it used to.  So, we’d like your help to spread the word about the harassment and assault that many girls and young women are subjected to on a daily basis.

We’re talking about any act of gender-based violence that causes physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women and girls.

We’d like you to imagine you’re an influential YouTuber or Podcaster, and we want you to make a short podcast or video to tell other young people, just like you, about the cat-calls, the sexist comments and unwelcome attention that can often lead to sexual harassment and physical violence.

Girls at school are among those at greatest risk; a recent Somerset youth survey showed that 45% of girls fear physical violence and sexual harassment on their way to and from school, while half of all women and girls have experienced some form of unwanted touching.

When you’re writing your script, think about the impact of this kind of violence on the women and girls in your life, not just the victims but their friends and family too.  Also, make sure you offer advice and guidance to the people who will watch and listen to your video or podcast and tell them where to find support if they need it.

There are lots of helpful videos and other resources here on the website to make sure you’ve got all the facts.  You’ll also find links to some other really useful websites too – just look at the menu to the left.

You don’t need a load of specialist equipment; in fact, you can make a really good video or podcast on your phone, laptop or tablet- it’s the script that’s (most) important.  Take time to make sure you include all the important information and that you’ve got a brilliant, creative idea to make it interesting to the people who will see or hear it.

Your podcast or video needs to be about one-minute duration and you need to send it to us by 14^th April at the latest.

There are lots of other schools across North Somerset and Somerset taking part in this project and the best entries will be shared online.

So, what are you waiting for?  Get creative, have fun and we look forward to seeing your videos or hearing your podcasts soon.