The University of Worcester hosted Healthy Relationships Workshops as part of the ongoing Safer Streets South Worcestershire Project - a collaboration between Partners including Worcester City Council and West Mercia Police.

The workshops are delivered by Purple Leaf, the training arm of West Mercia Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre.

The University of Worcester has hosted four of the specially-designed sessions which give students the opportunity to explore key issues such as power and control, consent, and the impact of sexual violence in relationships using activities, case studies and discussion.

Purple Leaf have also delivered workshops in schools locally to year 6, 9 and 12 students. Feedback has demonstrated their value with Becky Suckling from The Pinvin Federation, agreeing that: “As a school we felt that the programme was well thought out and was delivered with sensitivity to our cohort. 

"We were impressed with the flexibility of the programme, and the adults involved were more than happy to adapt where necessary to enable the children to be involved.

"We would not hesitate to ask Purple Leaf to return and deliver this programme again.”

In addition, Purple Leaf continue their work with Night-Time Economy sessions designed to encourage hospitality and retail owners in Worcestershire to play their part in mitigating against sexual harassment. These sessions have been held at other local venues, including Bar Limon in Malvern and The Diglis Hotel and Bottles Deli and Rotisserie in Worcester.

Hannah Cooper, service manager at Purple Leaf said: “We have been really pleased with the level of engagement and interest those attending the sessions have shown.

"There is a real desire to know the best way to safely challenge inappropriate behaviours, and ensure that those affected get access to support.”

If you’d like to find out about the workshops and sessions, and the Safer Streets project across South Worcestershire, please go to: www.worcester.gov.uk/community-safety/safer-streets

More about Purple Leaf please go to: www.purpleleaf.org.uk