Theatre production educates Tameside schoolchildren on violence against women and girls

A powerful theatre performance is touring Tameside schools to raise awareness of and challenge violence against women and girls (VAWG).

The production ‘Blind Side’ by Breaking Barriers, commissioned by Tameside Council and Tameside Police, has been revisiting secondary schools in November and will be performed in primary schools in April.

The monologue explores teenager Summer as she navigates difficult relationships, controlling behaviour and hurtful comments. It is followed by a facilitated discussion with the young audience, looking at key themes from the production and how they apply to real life.

Pupils discuss ideas around peer pressure, healthy relationships and harmful behaviour and are made aware of where to go for support. They are encouraged to share their own views on the piece and what they have learned.

A pre-film is also shown to the young people to introduce them to VAWG topics and allow them to share their thoughts in a safe environment.

1000 young people across Tameside were interviewed to create the script, meaning the performance reflects real attitudes and views of local children.

The secondary school visits took place during the 16 Days of Action as part of the White Ribbon campaign, which encourages men and boys to call out sexist comments and behaviour and challenge what they might deem as acceptable to help women and girls feel safe.

Cllr Taf Sharif, Tameside Council Executive Member for Health and Equalities, said: “It’s inspiring to see the production visiting schools once again this year so we can share the important message with as many young people as possible in an age-appropriate way.

“What's striking is to see how engaged the students are and how they truly listen to the meaning of the production.  These conversations can’t be left to adulthood, young people deserve the knowledge and confidence to recognise healthy relationships and call out what isn’t right.

“Our young people are the future. By shaping positive attitudes around healthy relationships and gender equality we can help to eliminate gender-based violence.

“Thank you to Breaking Barriers and the schools involved for making this possible.”

For support, see www.tameside.gov.uk/domesticabuse. 

For more information on the White Ribbon campaign, visit www.whiteribbon.org.uk.