United Kingdom: New Report Examines Effects of Gang-Related and Serious Youth Violence on Women and Girls - The Advocates 31/05/2011

The Advocates, 31/05/2011, excerpt/extracto.-

Race on the Agenda's (ROTA) 2011 Female Voice in Violence Final Report illuminates the effects that gangs and serious youth violence have on women and girls in the United Kingdom. Previously, most attention and resources have been spent on researching the effects of this violence on males. ROTA’s report reveals the physical, emotional and sexual abuse that women and girls face. The women who participated in this story did so at great risk, and the authors state that there will be no progress made until there is an environment of safe disclosure.

The report makes five main findings: First, females are affected by gang-related and serious youth violence because people close to them are involved. Second, risk management structures are necessary to allow girls the ability to leave their violent environment. Third, current policy and practice in the areas of youth violence and child protection do not effectively address gender-based violence. Fourth, national and local structures need to work together by creating minimum standards that are easily implemented in local communities. Lastly, males need guidance and structure in understanding the reality of negative attitudes and actions towards females.