Campaign urges young victims in North Yorkshire to seek help
Youth Commission aims to challenge stereotypes around abuse
The York & North Yorkshire Youth Commission has launched the 'Anyone Can Be A Victim' campaign to encourage young victims of abusive relationships to seek support without fear of judgement.
The initiative addresses stereotypes about abuse victims, emphasising that anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background, can experience such harm.
This campaign stems from 2025 peer-to-peer research revealing misconceptions among young people, particularly beliefs that victims fit a single stereotype and that boys and young men are less likely to seek help due to embarrassment.
In response, the Youth Commission has produced posters and social media content to be distributed to schools, colleges, and youth groups across the region.
This campaign is part of a broader support programme by York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, which in 2024/25, handled over 52,500 referrals and engaged with about 23,000 individuals.
Jo Coles, Deputy Mayor for Policing, Fire and Crime, applauded the Youth Commission for amplifying young voices and stressed the importance of seeking advice if something feels wrong.
"“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.”