Police chief's call for parents to tackle misogyny
Northumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth, wants adults in Northumberland to “lead by example” and challenge harmful attitudes towards woman and girls.
Mrs Dungworth’s comments follow national research which found almost one in three parents have noticed misogynistic behaviour among children at their child’s school
The YouGov survey of 900 parents found 31% saying they had noticed misogynistic attitudes or behaviour among children at their child’s school, 17% had noticed it among their child’s friends and seven per cent said they had noticed it in their own child.
Mrs Dungworth is encouraging parents to sign up for free active bystander training - helping them build the confidence and practical skills to safely challenge sexism, harassment and misogyny if they see it.
The training explores the different forms of violence against women and girls (VAWG), attitudes and myths that contribute to harmful behaviour, and why people sometimes hesitate to intervene when they witness something wrong.
Through group discussions and practical scenarios, participants learn how to assess situations, choose an appropriate response and intervene safely and effectively.
The Commissioner – who has made Women’s safety a flagship commitment in her Police and Crime Plans – says intervening does not have to mean confrontation — a few calm words or a simple offer of support can make a difference.
She said: “We all have a role to play in tackling violence against women and girls, and as parents that starts with the example we set.
“We all need to be prepared to challenge harmful behaviours when we see them.
“Not everyone feels confident about how to intervene.
"This training gives people practical tools to assess a situation, respond safely and support someone who may be experiencing harassment.
“By challenging behaviour rather than brushing it off as banter shows children that sexism and misogyny aren’t acceptable. I would encourage parents, sports coaches, anyone around kids - to sign up.”
The free training is open to adults who live, work or study in Northumberland.
The next course – two half-day sessions – take place on Friday December 4 and Friday December 11, from 9.30am to 1pm on both days.
To register, email [email protected] and further information is available at northumbria-pcc.gov.uk/bystander.