Youth sexual violence is a complex and challenging issue that can affect young people in all communities across Queensland. According to the most recent Australian Bureau of Statistics Personal Safety Survey, one in six women and one in ten men experience abuse before the age of 18.
Vocational Partnerships Group Inc. (VPG) has recently secured funding from the Queensland Department of Child Safety, Youth and Women to deliver a youth sexual violence prevention program committed to addressing the issue in Far North Queensland.
“This new funding will allow VPG to extend our RespectMe program promoting healthy and respectful relationships from the Tablelands to young people in the Cairns region.
“Adolescence is a crucial period in the formation of respectful, non-violent relationships with evidence showing that school violence prevention programs can produce lasting change in attitudes and behaviours. The RespectMe education program engages with staff and students to build a culture of respect, responsibility and support” said VPG Chief Executive Officer, Maryanne Tranter.
The program will be delivered to young people within school-sites and organisations across the Cairns region from August 1.
“To support the program delivery, VPG are currently recruiting for local social workers and educators who genuinely enjoy helping young people and are passionate about building positive relationships” said Ms Tranter.
VPG is a non-profit organisation that has been improving child and youth transitions in Far North Queensland for over 20 years.
For more information on the RespectMe program, please visit: http://www.respectme.org.au/
For further information or media interviews please contact:
Jenna Happy – VPG Communications Officer – mob: 0418 982 912
email: jenna@vpginc.com.au
