We're tackling violence involving young women in South Tyneside head-on
A South Shields charity is looking to tackle street violence among young women head-on.
A South Tyneside-based women’s charity is responding to a rise in street violence among young girls in the local area.
Bright Futures launched its ‘Someone Should Have Helped’ initiative in April 2025 following an incident on public transport where a young girl was attacked by her peers while others failed to intervene.
With other incidents having recently taken place, including a 12-year-old girl being attacked in a South Shields park, the charity has now expanded its youth-led campaign to address the issue head-on.
Bright Futures has introduced a dedicated workshop aimed specifically at young women to give those taking part a space to openly discuss the realities behind these incidents.
Dominique Hendry, Project Manager at Bright Futures, said: “We’re seeing more situations where young women are not only victims, but sometimes involved in causing harm.
“This session is about addressing that honestly, without blame, and giving young people the tools to make safer, more informed choices.
“We’re not asking young people to be heroes.
“We’re showing them that they have choices, whether that’s stepping in safely, getting help, or knowing when to walk away.”
The workshop will be delivered by experienced youth staff, including those trained in Active Bystander approaches through Northumbria Police.
It will look to help young women understand the consequences of violence, recognise risky situations, and explore practical ways to respond safely.
The free session will be held at Sutton Hall, on Prince Edward Road, in South Shields on Tuesday, May 26, from 5.30pm until 7.30pm.
It is open to young women aged 11–18 from across South Tyneside.