As part of the project, the First Kick Foundation are delivering a 10-week behaviour change programme for young people aged 13-14, covering topics such as misogyny, coercion, online influence and victim impact.

The project was developed in response to a growing trend of misogynistic attitudes among boys as young as 12, often influenced by figures like Andrew Tate, while also aiming to ensure that young girls feel confident and supported in school.

The First Kick Programme received £5,000 from the Commissioner’s VAWG fund, which has invested a total of £177,000 into 38 intervention projects that aim to prevent violence, support survivors, and create safer environments for women and girls across Lancashire.

The programme works alongside with the Commissioner’s recently launched #GetTheMessage campaign, which is urging men and boys to reflect on their own behaviours and understand how actions that they may deem ‘low level’ impact women.

Following the visit, Commissioner Clive Grunshaw said:

“Preventing violence against women and girls is key priority in the Police and Crime Plan, and I’m pleased to support local projects that work to educate young people and challenge misogynistic attitudes at a young age.

“We know how important early intervention is in influencing the lives of young people. By engaging with them at a young age and encouraging healthy conversations, we can drive meaningful, long-term change.

“As Police and Crime Commissioner, I will continue to support community projects that promote healthy relationships among young people, helping to prevent violence against women and girls in the future.”

Tom Hutton, Head of the First Kick Foundation, said:

“First Kick Foundation is delighted to be working in partnership with local high schools across South Ribble, delivering a range of engaging, enriching and informative Violence Against Women education sessions. Empowerment and early intervention is a key and valuable tool in enabling young people to both become more aware of the influences which lead to Violence Against Women and Girls taking place, alongside supporting young people to both appropriately challenge and identify such acts, in their community.”