Taking Action Against Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence: How North East Campaigners Make a Difference
Written by Kira Hunter on 3rd April 2025
NORTH East charities and campaign groups have called for more to be done to stop domestic abuse and sexual assault in the region.
It has previously been reported that the rate of attacks – particularly towards women – has been on the rise over the past few years, with the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealing that the North East has the highest recorded rates of sexual offences and domestic abuse-related crimes.
Infographic by Kira Hunter.
As this issue continues to worsen, it’s important to learn how we can help fight this and what steps to take. To find this out we spoke to several organisations for their opinion on what’s necessary for change.
A spokesperson for Wor Lasses, a women’s only social event space created by women for women in Newcastle upon Tyne, said: “1. Men need to work with other men on managing and regulating their own emotions, thus taking accountability for their behaviour.
“2. The police need to take women seriously.
“3. Work in schools to address the misogyny in boys needs to be a priority for people in power.”
The University of Sunderland Feminist Society also shared their thoughts. A spokesperson said: “Many people lack understanding of abuse, basic laws, and healthy relationships. Abusers often don’t realise they’re using abusive tactics, and victims may not know their rights. Victims sense something is wrong, while abusers continue unchecked. Abuse is so normalised that victims are often gaslighted, and abusers are empowered to escalate their behaviour.
“We need to educate people on healthy relationships, using organisations like Wearside Women in Need, Newcastle Women’s Aid, and the Schools Consent Project. Schools should also teach students that jokes about abuse and harassment are unacceptable, as they are often dismissed as ‘boys being boys’.
“Boys and young men are vulnerable to radicalisation online, especially in incel forums and certain online cultures that promote misogyny. This harms both women and boys, as they are taught harmful views of masculinity. A key resource for understanding this is ‘Men Who Hate Women’ by Laura Bates. We must reach out to young men with empathy and support organisations like Beyond Equality and Andy’s Man Club, which help boys navigate their insecurities in healthy ways. This benefits everyone.”
