News article
York pupils to take part in sexual abuse workshop devised by York St John lecturers
Published: 04 December 2015
It has been devised and directed by York St John University lecturers Rachel Conlon and Jules Dorey Richmond and is supported by Connecting Youth Culture. Performers in the play are student and graduate actors from the University’s Theatre degree programme.
Rachel Conlon, Senior Lecturer, Applied Theatre, said:"The positive response from the pupils, teachers and professionals we have worked with has been overwhelming.
“Young people in the city are learning that child abuse is not ok and are finding new ways of speaking out about it.”
Through the drama workshop, pupils get to explore the issues raised by the play, give the characters ‘advice’ and to find strategies in order to seek out support against sexual abuse.
Helen Westerman, Campaigns Manager, NSPCC, said: “Following considerable consultation with children and young people, this play has been developed to engage Year 7 students in some challenging issues around child sexual abuse and exploitation.
“The theatre team from York St John’s University deliver some powerful messages in subtle and thought provoking ways and the workshops that accompany the play will provide 11-12 year olds with an opportunity to explore these issues in a safe and supportive environment.’
Simon Westwood, Chair of York Safeguarding Children Board, said: “Child sexual abuse and exploitation is an issue that we all need to be aware of and vigilant to. I hope that the production and workshops will help to address a very sensitive issue with young people in an accessible and interesting way.”
The It’s not OK campaign is being run by City of York Safeguarding Children Board (a group of organisations in York which help support children and young people, including City of York Council, North Yorkshire Police and health partners) and the NSPCC. It aims to raise awareness of child sexual abuse and exploitation amongst young people, parents and carers, childcare and safeguarding professionals, and the general public.
The year-long campaign, the first of its type for the NSPCC in England, has four distinct phases, with each targeting a different audience. Information, resources and campaign materials will all be available in one place – the new sexual abuse and sexual exploitation website for York.
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