Centre Against Abuse targets teen dating violence

The Argus Group announces that it has made a donation to the Centre Against Abuse to support the organisation’s programme targeting Teen Dating Abuse Awareness. The programme is designed to raise awareness among teens and young adults about dating violence.

Launched during Teen Dating Abuse Awareness Month in February, information sessions continue throughout the school year at both private and public schools to educate students on dating and domestic violence, violence awareness and violence prevention. The Argus donation goes toward funding the sessions and accompanying literature.

Dating violence includes abusive behaviours used to exert power and control over a dating partner. This includes physical abuse such as hitting, biting and kicking; verbal or emotional abuse including threats, insults, humiliation and intimidation; sexual abuse like rape and coercion; and digital abuse in which the abuser uses technology and/or social media to harass, intimidate or threaten. Statistics show that one out of three teen girls is a victim of dating violence.

Now in its fourth year, the Centre Against Abuse began the programme to help youth understand what is healthy and normal and what is inappropriate behaviour in a relationship. These awareness sessions have been held at The Berkeley Institute, Bermuda High School for Girls, Bermuda Institute, Paget Primary, Sandys Middle School, Clearwater Middle School, Dellwood Middle School, Warwick Academy, and Whitney Middle School, to name a few.

According to Laurie Shiell, Executive Director, Centre Against Abuse, students are very receptive to the information: “Young people need to understand the difference between healthy and unhealthy relationships. They need to understand that dating violence is not just physical abuse, but also verbal, emotional and digital abuse. Teens need to know that it can happen to them. It is never too early to start the conversation with young people and we are happy that our programme is making a difference.”

Alison Hill, Chief Executive Officer, The Argus Group, says: “Dating violence is a concern for all young people and many don’t fully understand what it involves, how to identify it and how to get help. The programme run by the Centre Against Abuse provides important information to youth at an early stage. The Argus Group is pleased to support the Centre Against Abuse with this initiative.”