26 June 2025
Did you know that, according to NAO.org.uk, over one in four women are estimated to be victims of sexual assault or attempted assault in their lifetime? And one in 12 women are victims of VAWG each year, although the actual number is likely to be much higher!
We must continue to advocate for young women and girls in all areas of youth work. We are really proud to have a successful project serving communities in Cherwell. Our Young Women and Girls Project Coordinator has been doing some incredible work to provide a programme of support to young women and girls, aged 11-21 years, who have been affected by, or are at risk of, exploitation, harm, or abuse.
It is essential to recognise the psychological impact that this can have. Our Young Women and Girls Project Coordinator reflected that, “Supporting the mental health and wellbeing of young women and girls is key to the work I do as part of the Young Women and Girls Project. Wellbeing has to be at the forefront of the project because by supporting young women and girls to build their self-esteem, confidence, and feelings of safety, we help them to dream, achieve, and thrive.
Young women and girls face overwhelming challenges to their mental health, and between the ages of 17-25 years, are twice as likely to experience mental health concerns as their male counterparts. Stresses from social media, societal pressures, and body image expectations all disproportionately affect young women and girls, and can lead to many anxieties, low mood, and social isolation.
The importance of building positive communities in the lives of our young people is vital. So many young women and girls are stuck at home, unable to go to school or see friends because they feel too anxious or defeated to leave the house. The Young Women and Girls Project helps them access their community, engage in education outside of a school environment, and take part in activities and hobbies that they may otherwise not be introduced to.
Showing our young people that they can believe in their dreams and strive for more is a privilege, and it’s our duty as youth workers and professionals to make this a reality and invest in their mental health and wellbeing for their futures.”
If this sounds like something that would benefit young women that you work with, please reach out.
You can find our referral form here!
Please email all referrals securely to ywagcherwell.referrals@oxfordshireyouth.org.