INTERACTIVE workshops have been offered to students in a bid to tackle sexual harassment preconceptions - which was made possible by funding provided following the murder of Sarah Everard.

Weymouth College collaborated with Sexual Trauma and Recovery Services Dorset (STARS) and photographer Jayne Jackson to raise awareness for Sexual Abuse & Sexual Violence Awareness Week.

The workshops – which encourage students to take an active stand against violence and harassment - have been made possible thanks to funding from Dorset Council through the Safer Streets Home Office funding.

The money was made available in response to the murder of Sarah Everard, who was kidnapped and killed by serving Metropolitan Police Officer, Wayne Couzens.

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The students taking part had opportunities to interact with the 'well received' workshops.

Head of Student Services at Weymouth College, Sue Dafter said: “Weymouth College have collaborated with STARS Dorset to bring together a bespoke workshop series – interacting with (photographer Jayne Jackson's) ‘Asking for it’ photography exhibition – to raise awareness of sexual violence and harassment.

“Each workshop encourages the students to take an active stand against sexual violence and harassment by having a ‘mug shot’ taken and added to the exhibition.

“These workshops have been really well received by both the students and the staff accompanying them.

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“This is a sensitive and very emotive subject and having the topic delivered by experts is absolutely essential. STARS staff and volunteers were also on hand to provide additional 1:1 support for anyone who wishes to disclose or is upset by the topic. “

STARS offers free support to anyone who lives, works or studies in Dorset that has experienced any form of sexual violence at any time in their lives.

Helen Stevens, CEO of STARS Dorset, said: “Starting a conversation about what is effectively a tricky subject and creating a safe space to talk through the issues with young people helps to bring to light systemic issues and turns around preconceived ideas.

“Combatting sexual harassment through education and empowering young people to support their communities using bystander initiatives means that our younger generations can start to effect positive change."

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