Havering Sixth Form students mark elimination of violence against women and girls day.

Students at Havering Sixth Form in Hornchurch, yesterday, learned how to keep safe at an event to mark Elimination of Violence against Women Day.

The event included speakers from East Area police and various charities, and was held at the New City College on Wingletye Lane.

As well as talks on staying safe whilst out and about, students also heard from inspirational campaigner Payzee Malika on the importance of speaking up and asking for help if they feel threatened in a relationship.

At the college site there were stalls and interactive activities where students were given information from female survivors of violence, a team from the Met Police and a host of visiting charities and organisations.

Student Dishon Fox-Dales said the event had educated both male and female students and they were more aware now that if they call out bad or disrespectful behaviour, they can help make a difference so that women and girls are able to feel safe, both in their homes and on the streets.

He added: “Events like these are important for students and they help to provide useful information so that we can build a better society overall.”

East Area Superintendent Lisa Butterfield spoke to the students about staying safe while out in the evenings with friends, including the Ask Angela scheme and being aware of drink spiking. She said: “It is great that events such as this are held at New City College so that we can reach out to young people as they transition from secondary school to college and start engaging in adult lifestyle choices, such as relationships and freedom in their social life. It’s key that we talk to them about keeping themselves safe, and that they understand how much they all play a part in preventing violence against women and girls.”

Payzee Malika, who at 16 was forced into marriage to a much older man and whose sister was the victim of an ‘honour’killing, is now an international campaigner for women’s rights. Payzee said: “I have had some great conversations with the students here – they have been really open to talking and learning and hopefully have taken a lot away from the sessions.

“I have enjoyed sharing my own experiences and helping them to see that this can happen to anyone. I hope it has left them empowered with the confidence that they can come forward, ask for help if they need it and feel safe.”

Group Head of Tutorial and Enrichment, Emma Wood, who organised the event, said: “The students found the speakers very interesting and the whole event has made them more aware that violence against women can occur both in their homes and on the streets. It is important as a college that we can come together and make a stand to help women and girls who feel threatened and learn how to stop violence.” 

The same event is being held at all New City College campuses, including Ardleigh Green, Rainham, Redbridge, Epping Forest, Hackney and Tower Hamlets in the next two weeks.

Stay up to date with all of our latest updates and content by following us on our social media accounts!

We have created community pages where we will share our up-to-date stories happening in the area. Add the area closest to where you live.

Support Local Journalism
We at The Havering Daily appreciate your support of quality journalism. Your generous donation, no matter the size, allows us to continue bringing unbiased and informative news to the community. Your contribution helps us maintain our independence and allows us to continue providing high-quality journalism. Thank you for valuing the work we do and for supporting our mission

Thank you