Let’s talk about consent
NO MEANS NO. It is ok also to say STOP. At any time, YOU feel uncomfortable.
Consent means ‘permission for something to happen or agreeing to do something’. When it comes to sex, this means someone agreeing to take part in a sexual activity. Any form of sexual contact without consent is illegal whatever the age of the people involved.
If you do not give consent and a person still engages in a sexual act, this is sexual assault or rape.
Remember you should never feel pressured into any kind of sexual activity. It is ok to say no or change your mind at any given moment. If you feel you have been assaulted or raped, reach out for support, help and guidance.
Call 999 if in immediate danger or 101 to report a Sexual Assault or Rape.
Navigating Masculinity
Since the broadcast considerable discussion around masculinity has taken place. Click here to access a one page to helps adults support young people in navigating masculinity online. It provides practical tips for recognising negative influences, having supportive conversations, and understanding harmful language and symbols.
Emoji’s Explained
People of all ages use emojis in their digital communications. In addition to adding humour or emphasis to messages, for some communities and peer groups, these symbols can form a language of their own. This is particularly true of young people and teenagers, who sometimes use emojis as a code to disguise their true intentions from adult. While hidden meanings behind emojis used by young people can be harmless, some may indicate risks including extremism, drugs, sexual interactions and bullying. Click here to understand the hidden meaning behind emoji’s.
Shore – A safe space for teenagers worried about sexual behaviour
Shore provides a safe space for young people to talk about concerns they have about their own or someone’s sexual thoughts, feelings or actions. They provide anonymous advice and support to help young people manage worrying thoughts and learn more about living safely both online and offline. Click here for further information
Tackling Violence Against Women & Girls and Domestic Abuse
As part of Croydon’s Tackling VAWG Delivery Plan members of the community are being sought to be part of Croydon’s ‘Domestic Abuse Community Ambassadors’ programme click here to find out more.
Clares Law
Clare’s Law gives people the right to know if their current or ex-partner has any previous history of violence of abuse. The scheme is named after Clare Wood, who was tragically murdered by her abusive ex-boyfriend in 2009.
If you have any concerns about a current partner or ex-partner, or believe that you may be at risk in the future, you can complete the form online or visit your local police station to seek advice.
You can also ask for information about the partner or ex of a family member, friend, or neighbour, if you think they may be at risk of domestic abuse.
Violence Against Women and Girls
All of us have a responsibility to call out misogyny, violence and abuse.
We recognise this is not easy and some of us may lack the confidence to take that first step but there are some simple steps you can take to Do the Right Thing
SEE IT
Don’t stand by, stand up. If you can see that a person feels uncomfortable with someone’s behaviour then check they that are ok.
If you see abuse or violence, don’t look away, get help.
HEAR IT!
Sex should always be consensual. Only have sex when you both want to. Make sure you are regularly checking in for consent and be aware of your partner’s reaction. If you have any doubts, stop.
SAY IT!
Be part of the change, you may not harass or abuse women, but if you stay silent when you witness violence or abuse then you are part of the problem.
Report a crime by calling 101 or if in immediate danger call 999
Knife Crime
In May, a member of the Safeguarding and Wellbeing team attended the Croydon Knife Crime Roundtable. Croydon is keen to take positive steps to reduce knife crime. To support this, there are plans to set up a mobile collection of knives in Croydon, do look out for more information about this.
Tacking and reducing knife crime is also a priority for Surrey Police. During the summer term the Safeguarding and Wellbeing team met with key staff dedicated to this work.
The following statistics are from the Ben Kinsley Trust, a charity that tackles knife crime through education and campaigning. They provide valuable support and resources for young people, parents and education providers.
(Statistics – June 2025)
Charlies Promise is dedicated to helping the fight against the rising issue of knife crime in Surrey and across the UK. Using real life experience, they educate young people on the immeasurable impact knife crime has on the victim’s family and friends, and the wider communities.
Fight or Flight
At Fight or Flight our aim is to provide men and woman of all ages with a safe space where they feel comfortable to talk and open up about their experiences in an environment completely free of judgment. They want to end the stigma surrounding mental health and help everyone through conversation and exercise. Click here to view the activity schedule
Mind Matters Surrey
If you are feeling low, anxious or stressed, Mind Matters Surrey can help. Offering free and confidential talking therapies to people aged 17+ registered with a Surrey GP.
To easily access the service, simply click on the ‘Refer yourself‘ link and answer the questions on our friendly Limbic chat box. This will guide you through the referral process. You do not need to be referred by a GP. https://www.mindmattersnhs.co.uk/
Help is at Hand Phoneline
The ‘Help Is At Hand’ phoneline is available to parents/carers who my need support to understand things that might have suddenly become an issue and will readily share any advice or information or just a listening ear. Call 07592 037 823 – Mon-Fri 12-6pm
Legacy
Are a local charity in Croydon offering young people aged 8-19 and up to 25 with additional needs the chance to take part in varied activities that suit their needs and passion.
With over 20 activities on offer 7 days a week, the Youth Zone provides a safe environment where young people can enjoy themselves, raise their aspirations and confidence. Click here for further information.
Croydon Drop-in (CDI)
The Talkbus visits various community locations and will continue throughout the Summer holidays.
It’s free and no appointment is needed- 20% of visitors are adults!
Click here to view the Talkbus calendar
Young Carers
Luminus (Home and Healthwatch Surrey) would like to reach out and offer support to young carers. They are very aware not all young carers realise they are caring for a sick parent, younger siblings, or elderly grandparents as they have probably done so from a young age. Many young carers are unaware they are able to seek carers allowance, or respite from their day-to-day caring duties. Luminus are keen to provide support either externally or within the college setting. We will share further information in the near future.
Croydon Talking Therapies
A reminder that Croydon Talking Therapies is available for anyone 18+ who lives or is registered with a Croydon GP. This is a free, confidential service, for adults who would like to improve how they feel, learn ways to worry less and sleep better.
There are many types of talking therapy including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and Counselling. Talking therapy can be delivered in lots of different ways, over the phone, 1:1 or through online programmes.
- Online: search for ‘Croydon Talking Therapies’
- Phone: Call 020 3228 4040
- GP: Ask the GP to refer
