'Education needs to be at the forefront of efforts to end abuse'

Tender calls on the government to deliver high quality relationships education following the appalling murder of 15-year-old Holly Newton.

The parents of Holly Newton have highlighted the need for high quality relationships education, after 15-year-old Holly was killed by her 16-year-old ex-boyfriend.

Micala Tussler told BBC News:

‘Children are getting into relationships much younger; they can be victims of domestic abuse. We need more education, not just for children but for teachers and parents.’

Tender CEO, Susie McDonald, says:

‘I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to Holly’s parents, family and friends.

‘A vital lesson for everyone is that just because the relationship has ended, it doesn’t mean the abuse has stopped. Perpetrators may continue to stalk and threaten their ex-partners, and the risk of homicide is at its highest after the relationship ends.

‘Education is absolutely crucial in equipping children and young people with the tools and knowledge to build healthy relationships. It’s the most effective way to protect them both from becoming victims, and also perpetrators – and needs to be at the forefront of government efforts to end domestic abuse.

‘Tender’s whole school approach programme, RESET, is designed not only to reach children but the whole school community – young people, teachers and parents/carers. We build respectful, informed environments, embedding knowledge and skills so everyone can recognise early signs of abusive behaviours and access expert support.’

Tender’s call for government action comes after Saoirse Ronan raised women’s safety in a now viral episode of the Graham Norton Show.

Susie continues:

‘Saoirse Ronan voiced a fact sadly all girls and women can relate to – and one that silenced four men. As is so often the case, the conversation quickly changed direction, rather than facing the issue head on.

‘As a nation we must equip boys and men with the language and confidence to call out negative behaviours and attitudes of other men, and to be allies in ending violence against women and girls. We must ensure that no boy or man can claim they hadn’t been educated about healthy, kind and equal relationships.’