Young people face real risks in relationships and online
Misinformation, peer pressure, and harmful content can leave many 11–16 year olds confused about healthy relationships and at risk online. Teachers often feel unprepared to tackle these sensitive issues. Without clear guidance, students may make unsafe choices or experience low self-worth, putting their wellbeing and future at stake.
Helping young people make better choices
Respected was founded by Dr Louise Parkin, a GP in Dorset who saw the impact of poor relationship education on young people. She wanted a programme that gives students real understanding and practical skills. Respected started with volunteer-led presentations around Dorset, but the pandemic inspired a fresh approach: short, interactive films that can also be used in class by by teachers nationally. This makes it easy for any school to deliver lessons.
Lessons engage by using films and activities to build skills and confidence for Years 7–11 with three main parts:
- Interactive films that explore key topics in a relatable way.
- Class activities and discussions that help students reflect on what they learned.
- Support resources pointing students to extra help if needed, including a parents’ area so conversations can continue at home.
Feedback from 3,500+ students shows strong results: 80% of younger teens better understand healthy relationships, 63% feel safer online, and 97% of teachers recommend the programme.
Helping Respected reach thousands more students
Many schools have very small budgets for RSE, so Respected keeps fees low, at approximately £1 per pupil per year. The programme has great potential to grow and reach more schools efficiently, without large amounts of extra funding. Funding from The John Good Group will cover delivery costs for thousands more pupils. Because the lessons are online, easy to run, and regularly updated, the impact continues year after year, giving young people the knowledge and confidence to build safer, healthier relationships.
We are thrilled and honoured to have been shortlisted. With toxic online influences back in the headlines, pressures on young people have never been greater. Our film-based lessons challenge misinformation and empower students to make healthy, respectful choices. Your support helps us reach thousands more, like two local pupils who told us, ‘I learnt things that will help me in real life, thanks,’ and ‘They really helped me with issues I’ve been through. Thank you so much’.
Respected is a thoughtful, well-designed response to what young people are facing today. Under Dr Louise Parkin’s leadership, the team has evolved from talks to an interactive, film-based programme that teachers can deliver with ease, supported by resources for students and parents. I’m impressed by their commitment to staying current and relevant, and by a delivery model that is both scalable and affordable for schools. With strong engagement and clear impact data, I’m confident Respected can extend its reach and help many more young people build healthy, respectful relationships.
Latest Project Updates
September 2025
Granted £2,500
After employees at the John Good Group voted for their favourite causes, Respected received a grant of £2,500.
August 2025
Grants for Good Finalist
Respected has become one of the top five finalists in the latest Grants for Good round, and will receive a grant between £2000 and £5000 after employees at the John Good Group have voted on their favourite causes.