Voice Against Violence is a group of eight young people with first-hand experience of domestic abuse and support services who formed a national independent group of recognised ‘young experts’ to tell people in power what needs to change to improve the lives of children.
Who we are
Where we're based
Located in Edinburgh, with a nationwide reach
When we started
November 2009
How we started
The members of Voice Against Violence recognised that policy makers need constant advice from a child's perspective, whereby young people are listened to as equals and experts in order for their needs and wishes to be upheld.
Our work
The members of Voice Against Violence speak up for themselves about what needs to change to protect children from abuse. They aim ultimately to put a stop to domestic violence through campaigns, grass-roots research and consultations with the government. The group have conducted a survey report entitled 'Shaping the Future: One Voice at a Time' which expresses the views of over 600 young people across Scotland, setting out their priorities for tackling domestic abuse. Through these efforts, funding has been secured for specialist support workers and outreach services for isolated young people in Scotland.
Future plans
Voice Against Violence are drawing together their hard work into a legacy film and advice booklet to be displayed in a roadshow. The group have also advised the government to set up a teaching resource designed to encourage teachers to listen to their students and take action against domestic abuse.
Project website
http://voiceagainstviolence.org.uk/
The legacy of domestic abuse [on] life as a young person can be a hard one, but they have turned something so negative into a positive and keep on doing so. It really is awe inspiring.
Claire Houghton
