West Lothian is leading the way with a pioneering project in schools aimed at addressing the root causes of domestic assaults and gender-based violence in society. The project involves senior high school pupils acting as mentors to younger students, with a focus on promoting mutual respect within relationships.
The initiative challenges traditional stereotypes and behaviours, particularly addressing the misogyny prevalent on social media targeting young boys and men. The Mentoring in Violence Prevention (MVP) scheme, running for two years, has already shown broader improvements in school behaviour. Students are actively engaging with peers and staff to prevent conflicts and violence.
According to Martin Berginis, the council’s Child Protection Officer, almost all high schools in West Lothian have implemented the MVP programme, making it one of the few local authorities in Scotland to have done so across all secondaries. The scheme, developed by Police Scotland’s Violence Reduction Unit and Education Scotland, aims to enhance pupil understanding of issues such as healthy relationships, consent, gender equality, and negative stereotypes.
Senior pupils undergo extensive training to deliver various MVP lessons to their younger peers, addressing specific issues relevant to the school community. These mentors serve as trusted points of contact for younger students, offering support on sensitive topics they may not feel comfortable discussing with adults.
Mr. Berginis emphasised the impact of creating a generation of young people who act respectfully in relationships, ultimately leading to improved domestic abuse statistics. The commitment and dedication of the young participants are hailed as the driving force behind the programme’s success.
By the end of the last school session, 68 staff and 234 senior pupils were trained as MVP mentors across eleven secondary schools, with an increase in lessons delivered compared to the previous year. The programme is not only fostering a culture of respect and support but also enhancing leadership and presentation skills among senior mentors.
Councillors have praised the initiative, noting its positive effects on school behaviour, attendance, and attainment. The ongoing success of the MVP programme is indicative of its transformative impact on creating a safer and more respectful environment within schools, ultimately shaping future generations with values based on consent and healthy relationships.