A programme that explores the blurred lines of consent and healthy relationships should definitely be rolled out nationwide, according to a Northland high school.
A major conclusion of the year-long investigation into the Roast Busters scandal found there needed to be more education for teenagers about consent, especially when alcohol was involved. The scandal was over a group of Auckland teenage boys bragging online about allegedly having sex with drunk, underage girls, some as young at 13. There was public outrage when no charges were brought against the teenagers.
Dargaville High School was the only school in the region, and one in only handful of others across New Zealand, that took part in the ACC pilot programme called "Mates and Dates" to raise awareness on the issues of consent and healthy relationships.
While Year 13 student Sara Coates thought she knew a lot of the information that was taught, she was not as sure about her peers. "A lot of people don't go for help when they need it," she said.
Year 13 Rose Sircombe said the Government needs to fund the programme in every school. "It was really helpful for us because we didn't realise there was actually so many resources out there," she said.