Nurseries urged to support boys affected by abuse

United for Boys is a charter written by international charity Family for Every Child after its research estimated that one in six boys worldwide experiences sexual abuse.

While girls continue to be the gender principally affected by sexual violence, with around one in four estimated to suffer abuse, Family For Every Child suggested boys’ suffering can fall under the radar.

Family for Every Child, which is made up of 36 member organisations working to support vulnerable children in 35 countries across the world, has called in its charter for six evidence-based principles to support boys. They are:

Organisations which become signatories to the United for Boys charter will be able to access tailored support and guidance from Family For Every Child, and will receive a campaign badge.
Amanda Griffith, chief executive of Family For Every Child, said, ‘All around the world, millions of children – girls and boys alike – are affected by sexual abuse, exploitation and harmful behaviours. All children deserve a childhood free of these threats.

‘Socio-cultural norms related to childhood, gender, masculinity and sexuality perpetuate sexual violence affecting boys, increase the vulnerability of boys to sexual violence, and contribute to under reporting.

‘Our United For Boys charter combines public awareness-raising with systemic change. It calls on everybody – women and girls, men and boys, professionals and the public, young and old – to be a part of building a brighter future for boys, and for everyone.

‘We believe that the best way to achieve these changes is by engaging professionals, from teachers and school support staff to GPs and social workers, who can work in new ways to improve the system for children worldwide.’