Zero Tolerance Launch New Anti-Violence Guidelines

Today, at the University of The West of Scotland in Hamilton, Scottish domestic abuse charity Zero Tolerance is set to release its own media guide, in order to inform journalists how to report violence towards women in a responsible way.

The charity is working to end men’s violence towards women and children, and their ‘Handle With Care’ guidelines have been developed after years of the media reporting stories of violence towards women irresponsibly, promoting myths and painting a picture of men who are ‘monsters’.

The importance of these media guidelines is highlighted by Zero Tolerance co-ordinator, Jenny Kemp who says, “The media plays a crucial role in shaping our world, and journalists’ words have a lasting impact. Issues around gender violence should indeed be ‘handled with care’, but with the right approach, the media can make positive contribution to ending society’s still too high tolerance of violence and abuse”.

Zero Tolerance’s ‘Handle With Care’ guide is available to download from the charity’s website at www.zerotolerance.org.uk/projects/MediaGuide