The event, a collaboration between NHS Lanarkshire and North Lanarkshire Council, brought together over 100 professionals from education, healthcare, policing, and the voluntary sector.

Keynote speakers included Laura Bates, founder of the Everyday Sexism Project, and Michael Conroy of Men at Work, both of whom highlighted the need for systemic change in schools to prevent gender-based violence.

Discussions focused on expanding initiatives such as the Mentors in Violence Prevention (MVP) programme and the Equally Safe in Schools approach, which aim to educate young people about healthy relationships and bystander intervention.

Barry Smedley, Chief Education Officer, emphasised the importance of the event: “Ensuring our schools are safe and inclusive environments is vital. By working together, we can empower both staff and students to challenge harmful attitudes and behaviours.”

Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive. Ann Hayne, NHS gender-based violence manager, said, “I’m delighted to be part of the North Lanarkshire Violence Against Women Partnership and support our colleagues in education, who are tackling these complex issues every day in our schools. Healthy relationships are crucial to community well-being.”

The event underlines North Lanarkshire’s commitment to preventing gender-based violence and fostering a culture of respect and equality in schools.