16-25 year olds are the age group most likely to experience an abusive relationship (ONS, 2020). When a young person is also disabled, their risk of experiencing domestic or sexual violence doubles, with disabled girls being the most affected (Public Health, 2015). Recent research shows that only half of young people believe their school provides good relationships education, with the same report highlighting a tendency by teachers to ‘infantilise’ disabled students (SafeLives, 2022).

We will prepare and empower 40 neurodivergent girls, young women and their peers to prevent abuse by delivering 5 specialist projects. Each 9 hour project will include: -1.5 hours of relationship building between Tender staff and the young people taking part - 7.5 hours of arts-based activities and online game “Relationship Goals”, tailored appropriately to the group’s age and specific needs. These will include topics such as communication, online safety and consent.