Law firm backs push to tackle misogynistic behaviours

Law firm Geldards has pledged financial support for a programme run by Derby County Community Trust, which aims to reduce misogynistic behaviours in young males.

Geldards’ backing will allow the trust to deliver its Switching Formations programme in local Secondary Schools, which challenges harmful gender stereotypes, builds emotional intelligence, encourages respectful relationships and fosters self-awareness.

The programme has been developed on the back of research that shows 61% of males aged 16 to 25 in the UK regularly engage with masculinity influencers and 35% of these have acted on influencer advice, including taking steroids or testosterone.

Thanks to the support of Geldards, the trust will be able to maintain year-round delivery, expand the programme to more Derby secondary schools and upskill academy and club staff around the important topics associated with the programme.

Chris Tomlinson, the trust’s head of business development, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Geldards for their support of the Switching Formations programme.

“Their commitment allows us to reach more young people across Derby, challenging harmful gender norms and helping to shape a more respectful, emotionally aware generation.”

David Williams, chairman at Geldards, said: “Geldards is proud to support this programme. The work carried out by the community trust in our local secondary schools is of paramount importance.

“Empowering young people to make informed decisions and giving them the tools to challenge harmful stereotypes is an important building block in creating community cohesion.”