Violence Against Women and Girls Street Safety Initiative

This pilot project addresses violence against women and girls (VAWG) through a multi-faceted approach combining creative performance, community training, and targeted communications. The program responds to evidence showing that over three-quarters of young women and girls modify their behavior during summer to avoid unwanted sexual attention, and that 51% of girls aged 13-18 have experienced unwanted sexual comments. The initiative comprises three core components: (1) street-based theatrical performances developed and delivered by a commissioned theatre group with input from young women and girls through workshops; (2) bystander intervention training delivered to community members to improve responses to inappropriate behavior; and (3) a communications campaign to amplify messaging and reach. The delivery will be trauma-informed through engagement of specialist groups throughout implementation. The theatre group will lead from research and development through to delivery and evaluation, ensuring the project meaningfully incorporates the voices and experiences of affected young people.