Healthy Relationship Scheme for Schools

7th February 2023                                                      

PCC announces new “healthy relationships” programme for schools in Kent.

This Internet Safety Day, Kent’s Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Scott is delighted to announce a new safety initiative for children in Kent, designed to help them build healthy relationships and alert them to the dangers of online harm.

The programme will be delivered by specialist company Collaborate Digital who have had success with similar schemes in other parts of the country. 

They use critical thinking, roleplay, creativity and collaboration to improve young people’s social resilience and help them make better choices in life.  The youngsters are also encouraged to make their own podcasts to support the healthy relationships message.

The half-day multi-media workshops will commence in some Kent schools later this month. Specialist facilitators will describe what a coercive relationship may look like, as well as explaining how to keep yourself safe online while using social media or gaming.  They will offer sources of advice for students, so they know where to seek help should they become a victim of cyberbullying or harassment.

Matthew Scott says,

“An early intervention programme for schools was one of the stand-out recommendations you told me you wanted in the Violence Against Women and Girls survey last year.  

On this Internet Safety Day, I’m delighted to be able to bring Collaborate Digital on board with their innovative approach to learning and a proven record in other parts of the country. 

I have no doubt youngsters will enjoy these sessions, learning valuable life lessons as well as having fun making their own podcasts. 

Nearly a fifth of you told me you had been a victim of harassment, both on and off-line, with young people in particular reporting their concerns about it.  This is an excellent opportunity to teach youngsters about appropriate behaviour and how to keep themselves safe.”

Mark Matthews, Director of Collaborate Digital says,

“We are delighted that the Police and Crime Commissioner has chosen Collaborate Digital to deliver this extremely important project that will support young people and families throughout Kent.

“These workshops give a voice to the county’s young people, providing an opportunity to hear what they have to say about healthy online relationships, cyberbullying and other forms of online harm.

“We know that creativity can give young people a vital outlet to express and make sense of their thoughts and emotions, and this project provides a powerful and innovative way of involving young members of the community and helping them understand the complexities of a life lived online.”

Teachers who have previously participated in Collaborate Digital workshops elsewhere in the country have said,

“A really well-run workshop, lots of information and opportunities for students to engage.  The students have really enjoyed it and will use the information to teach others.” 

Alice Parry, Head of Year 9, Stanchester Academy, Somerset

“Great workshop that allows students to creatively explore and engage in real and relevant issues of modern Britain.” 

Jess Jones, Personal Development Leader, Horbury Academy, Wakefield