The Boys’ Brigade’s monthly programme for May will include activities for young people focusing on the issue of sexual harassment and how we can all play a role in sending the message that “It’s Not OK”.

Four activities for members of the BB’s Company Section and Seniors (11 – 18 year olds) have been developed to help start a conversation, raise awareness and encourage young people to think about ways they can be part of the solution and not the problem.

The activities focus on harassment, particularly sexual harassment which can include the kind of ‘everyday’ acts which some may view as harmless, but which contribute to an environment where girls and women feel harassed and intimidated. Whilst it’s true that not all boys and men carry out these acts, it is however the responsibility of everyone to know the signs of harassment and do their best to call it out and disrupt it where they can.

Some groups have already been using the activities as they return to face-to-face activities.

“It was interesting as I learnt new things that I had never really thought of and i would be more comfortable pulling my mate up about it now in the future or thinking twice myself.” – Charlie (15)

“This was needed, some of these things happen every day and we need to learn they are not normal and acceptable. Not all people realise how it can impact.” – Elise (12)

Jonathan Eales, Chief Executive commented:

“We believe it’s very important to create a space to openly discuss these kinds of issues and how we can and should respond. It’s also important for us that our values as a Christian youth organisation are practically explored, including how we should care for each other and treat everyone respectfully.”

Since September last year the BB has been producing a flexible monthly programme of resources, which can be used by BB groups in either face-to-face or virtual sessions. As with all of the BB’s monthly programme materials and #BBatHOME resources produced since March 2020, the new ‘It’s Not OK’ activities can be freely accessed via our Programme Hub at boys-brigade.org.uk/programme