PCC funding drives powerful youth‑led film on sexual harassment

A powerful new film tackling sexual harassment has been created by students in Southampton thanks to funding from the Police and Crime Commissioner, Donna Jones.

The project brought together The Polygon School, Crestwood Community School, charity Yellow Door, and Southampton Solent University in a unique collaboration focused on preventing violence against women and girls (VAWG).

The film, called Now Your Turn, is part of a broader prevention and early intervention scheme delivered by Yellow Door which has received almost £35,000 in funding from the PCC.

It’s been co-created with boys aged 12 to 16 who wanted to show how they could be part of the solution, not part of the problem.

The film shows how a group of boys in a local park are able to reflect, rethink and redress their language and attitudes towards a young girl passing by.

Donna Jones said: “The message from the students is clear: boys can help end violence against women and girls.

“Society’s attitude must change if we are to reduce sexual offences, harassment, rape and abuse going forward.

“It is deeply shocking that young children are exposed to sexual harassment of any kind.

“We must do more to call out this behaviour when we see it; leaving it unchallenged just normalises it.

“Education, both at home and at school, is vital and that’s why I’m delighted to see these students being empowered to speak out through the making of this film.”

It’s hoped Now Your Turn will be used as an educational resource in schools, colleges and higher education across the UK.

Wayne K., Independent Sexual Violence Adviser and Young Person’s Advocate at Yellow Door, said: “They should be extremely proud of what they have achieved – knowing that their work will help others while learning some fantastic new skills. This short film was truly created by young people for their peers.”

The PCC has invested £5.2 million in services to support victims and reduce violence against women and girls in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight this financial year.

And while welcoming the government’s long awaited VAWG strategy, she believes it falls short of pledging the funding needed for policing and judicial reform.

“It’s unacceptable that victims of sexual violence are still waiting years for justice.

“That delay not only re-traumatises survivors but undermines public confidence in the system.

“We need comprehensive reforms to speed up investigations, trials, and sentencing if the government intends to deliver on its pledge to halve violence against women and girls in a decade.”

For more information on OPCC funding click here 

Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week runs from the 2nd – 8th February 2026.