As part of our work, we see every day how sexism, harassment, and misogyny affect the lives of girls and young women across Norfolk. They aren’t rare occurrences. It is happening in classrooms, on buses, in parks, and online. Many young people are navigating these pressures without the guidance or support they need and this can often leave them feeling isolated, anxious, or unsure how to respond.
This is backed up by new research from Girlguiding UK, which confirms what we hear on a daily basis. The research shows that these issues are common, they have a real impact on confidence and wellbeing, and impact how girls and young women navigate the world.
What the Research Shows
The survey revealed some worrying statistics. Around 1 in 10 girls have skipped school to avoid sexual harassment, while a quarter have held back in class because they’re afraid of abuse. Even younger girls are affected: 1 in 3 aged 7-10 reported uncomfortable comments from boys, and 17% said boys regularly make remarks about their bodies. By the time girls reach 11-18, over half have experienced this kind of behaviour. Shockingly, 1 in 3 also reported seeing teachers or staff receive sexist or misogynistic comments themselves.
It doesn’t stop at school. Many girls tell us they feel unsafe on public transport, avoid going out after dark, or change how they dress because of the comments they hear. The content and personalities that children are engaging with online is also playing a big role. Research by YouGov found that 1 in 6 boys aged 6-15, and nearly 25% of boys aged 13-15, have a positive view of Andrew Tate, who openly shares misogynistic views. These attitudes don’t stay online - they’re being repeated in schools and peer groups, influencing behaviour and shaping young people’s understanding of relationships.
The Call for Change
This isn’t new, but it’s clear more needs to be done. The government’s Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Strategy could be a big step in tackling misogyny, both in school and online, but delays to the strategy have left many frustrated. Girlguiding has called on schools and local authorities to act, publish clear plans, and listen to girls. They’ve also suggested a social media rating system to protect young people from harmful content.
How Leeway is Making a Difference
At Leeway, we know this work matters. Our Healthy Relationship Service supports children and young people across Norfolk, helping them understand what healthy relationships look like and giving them the confidence to recognise and respond to harmful behaviours. As part of this service we talk about the content that young people are seeing online, the pressure they are feeling from their peers, and the various ways that relationships can be unhealthy. The aim is to give them the tools they need to make safer choices.
The difference is real. Young people tell us they feel more confident, better understand what positive behaviour looks like, and are more able to speak up when something isn’t right. Services like this play a vital role in breaking the cycle of abuse while addressing the wider problem of violence against women and girls.
Supporting Girls Across Norfolk
We want every girl in Norfolk to feel safe, respected, and supported. By giving young people the knowledge and tools to navigate relationships and challenge harmful attitudes, we can help them grow into confident, empowered adults. We can see that the Healthy Relationship Project is making that happen - but there is still so much more work to do.
