[WiLT] Survey - Support services for women and girls affected by gang and serious youth violence

[WiL Admin]

Support services for women and girls affected by gang and serious youth violence

Race on the Agenda (ROTA) is conducting major research on the impacts of gang
and serious youth violence and serious group offending on women and girls. Until
now, the needs and experiences of girls and women has been largely ignored.

ROTA's 'Female Voice in Violence' research project has been running since March
2008. The research team of seven women, led by ROTA Policy Officer Carlene
Firmin, is working with women and girls to raise awareness about the risks
faced, and roles played, by women affected by serious youth violence, including
mothers, sisters or partners of gang members and/or young men involved in
violence, as well as young female offenders.

ROTA is interviewing women and girls, and collecting examples of best practice
and evidence from third sector practitioners working with young people.

Women's voluntary and community organisations could play a major role in
supporting women and girls affected by gang and serious youth violence. In
partnership with ROTA, WRC is conducting a needs assessment of women's
organisations about the support they are currently delivering or would like to
provide for girls and women affected by gang and serious group offending and
youth violence.

It is envisioned that the research project will shape policy at local, regional
and national levels, across health, education, criminal justice, housing and
equalities. During September to November 2009, ROTA will be meeting with London
boroughs, the Mayor London and Government Equalities Office to disseminate
findings and discuss future strategies.

How can I get involved?

WRC is currently assessing the capacity and needs of the women's sector in
meeting the support needs of gang affected women and girls. We are conducting a
short survey about the current and potential support available from women's
organisations. The survey closes on Monday 31 September.  Complete the survey
online here: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=sK9Z2W0FsrtuFmzITgKapw_3d_3d

WRC and ROTA will be holding a meeting of women's organisations to discuss how
to take forward the research findings and influencing of decision makers on 20th
August 2009 10.30-1.30pm in central London. If you would like to attend, or want
to find out more, contact Tania Pouwhare on policy at wrc.org.uk or 020 7324 3030
with your name, organisation and contact details.

To find out more:

Visit ROTA's website: www.rota.org.uk/pages/BBP.aspx

Channel 4 'Dispatches' programme into gang rape and sexual violence against
girls and women:
http://www.channel4.com/programmes/dispatches/articles/rape-in-the-city