If you needed proof that the UK is full of interesting and fantastic young women and girls then look no further than Girlguiding. The charity, which we are very proud to have worked with over the last two years, recently released the results of their sixth Girls' Attitude Survey.
Collecting the opinions of over 1,200 girls and young women aged seven to 21 inside and outside of Girlguiding across the UK the survey provides a valuable insight into how young people feel about the specific and emerging pressures facing them today and how they envisage their future.
Introducing the survey Girlguiding commented that: "This year’s survey once again tells a story of inequality. The girls we surveyed continue to face high levels of sexism. They voice very serious concerns about violence against women and girls, body image and the representation of women in the media…But the good news is that many girls are now saying enough is enough. They know they should expect better."
The Girls' Attitude Survey covers many aspects of the lives of young women. Bullying remains an issue, 42% of those surveyed know girls who have experienced racism, 40% have been aware of homophobic bullying and 31% know of incidents involving bullying about a disability among their peers. The majority of 13 to 21 year olds report experience of sexual harassment. Frustratingly 61% of girls of secondary-school age (11 to 16 years) say teachers or staff sometimes or always dismiss sexual harassment as just a bit of banter. 74% of all those surveyed believe schools should teach more about sex and relationships.
85% of those aged 11 to 21 say they experience sexism in some aspect of their life, they see it in the media, social media, schools, colleges, and public places. They reported feeling angry, less confident, embarrassed or degraded, and less safe.
Among those surveyed girls and young women with an interest in politics were in the minority at 21%. 57% believe politicians don't listen to their views enough and 67% agree there are not enough women MPs. More than 50% said that they would be more interested in politics if parliament was more diverse.
Girlguiding's chief executive Julie Bentley said: "Together, girls and young women really can help affect society for the better and create the future they want to see. It’s up to all of us to listen to what they have to say."
