The York & North Yorkshire Youth Commission are delivering a new ‘Anyone Can Be A Victim’ campaign, challenging stereotypes about victims of abusive relationships.
The campaign highlights that anyone regardless of age, gender, or background can experience abuse, and that every young person deserves access to support without fear of judgement.
This work follows the Commission’s 2025 peer‑to‑peer research, which found that many young people believe victims of abuse fit a single stereotype. The research also revealed that boys and young men often feel embarrassed or unable to reach out for help.
In response, the Youth Commission has created a series of posters and social media materials that will be shared with schools, colleges, and youth groups across the region.
This work sits alongside a wider programme of support delivered across the region by York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority. In 2024/25, our commissioned services received:
- approximately 52,500 referrals,
- engaged with around 23,000 individuals,
- achieved over 90% satisfaction rates across all service areas.
During the same period, we invested £3.5 million in 11 core victim services, which received 43,945 referrals for victims and those at risk of becoming victims of crime, and engaged directly with 19,157 individuals.
Jo Coles, York and North Yorkshire Deputy Mayor for Policing, Fire and Crime said:
“The Youth Commission do a brilliant job ensuing that the voices of young people across our region are heard. This campaign highlights that abuse, and abusive relationships can affect anyone and if that something doesn't feel right it's always ok to seek advice and support.
“No victims of crime and abuse should have to suffer in silence. There is a lot of help and support available. The Mayor David Skaith and I are determined to ensure everyone in our region feels safe so if you are a young person and you think you might have been a victim, please speak to a trusted adult or contact our supporting victims' team:
http://www.supportingvictims.org or by calling 01609 643 100.”
Emily Blavins, Senior Project Manager, Leaders Unlocked said:
"It’s been fantastic to watch our members making a real difference in their communities by going into schools and speaking with young people about this campaign. They’re spreading a simple but crucial message and I’m looking forward to seeing their campaign reach even more young people across the county.”
To find out more information about the Youth Commission please visit: https://www.northyorkshire-pfcc.gov.uk/for-you/young-people/youth/