New DVD set to raise Teenagers’ awareness of domestic violence and sexual abuse

Award winning Charity Eighteen And Under launches its latest addition to the universally praised VIP (Violence is Preventable) programme tomorrow (Friday 13th April).

The launch coincides with the 13th birthday of the Charity, making it an exciting double celebration.

The new Teen VIP DVD, aimed at young people aged fourteen and over, explores a number of sensitive issues such as bullying, racism, domestic violence, sexual abuse and sexual exploitation in a thoughtful and sensitive way. It will allow teachers, social workers, the police, voluntary organisations and youth leaders to open up useful dialogues with young people about many of the issues they will face as they grow up in today’s society.

The DVD was shot in and around Dundee with a host of young people, playing each of the teenage roles. The adult roles were played by volunteers and supporters of Eighteen And Under.

Laurie Matthew, Coordinator of Eighteen And Under said, ‘This is a hugely important addition to our Teens section of the VIP Programme. Everyone who has seen it has been amazed by the quality of the production and the depth of conversation each scenario depicted in the DVD can evoke. We are extremely indebted to everyone who took part in making the DVD and feel really positive about the impact it will have on all who see and use it in the future. We must also express our huge thanks to our sponsors, the Nationwide Foundation.’

The DVD is accompanied by a 40 page trainer’s manual and can be obtained by contacting Eighteen And Under on 01382 206222 or by visiting their online shop at www.violenceispreventable.org.uk/shop.

Notes for Editors

The actual launch event will take place at The Townhouse Bar, Cowgate, Dundee at 7.30pm on 13th April 2007. There is also an opportunity to view the video and talk to staff at Eighteen And Under’s premises at 1 Victoria Road, Dundee from 2pm on the same afternoon.

About Eighteen And Under

Eighteen And Under is a registered charity, based in Dundee, that offers confidential support and information to any young person, aged 18 and under, who has experienced sexual, physical or emotional abuse. The charity is a member of the World Health Organisation’s Global Alliance for the Prevention of Violence and they have helped thousands of young people in the Dundee area and throught the UK over the last 13 years. For more information, visit their website at www.18u.org.uk.

About the VIP Programme

The VIP Programme is a multi award winning abuse prevention programme for children, young people and vulnerable adults throughout the UK.
It works on three levels:-
1. Early disclosures - meaning abuse is stopped sooner
2. Staying safe - avoiding violent or abusive situations
3. Changing the mindset of potential abusers of the future.

The programme has won many national and international awards, including

2006 Scottish Social Services Council Care Accolades
SPECIAL COMMENDATION
2006 Scottish Crime-Stoppers–Community Safety Award
WINNER
2005 News of the World Children's Champion's individual award for Co-coordinator.
2005 Dundee Partnership Awards–Community Safety Award
WINNER
2004 Women in Cities International & International Centre for the
Prevention of Crime - Safety Award

For more information about the VIP programme visit www.violenceispreventable.org.uk.

Some Statistics (From the WHO)