Respect ME use personal stories, compelling cultural examples and detailed subject knowledge to relate to students on a personal level. Our inclusive lessons encourage students to voice opinions on delicate matters around sex, relationships and self-esteem in a safe and supportive environment.
We believe we are uniquely placed to provide RSE and PSHE education that cares for the whole child, promoting a healthy sense of self, positive mental health and emotional wellbeing. Underpinned by our Christian values, our mission is to help young people know they are loved, accepted and valued and that there is hope for their life.
History
Respect ME was founded by Emma Owen (former member of The Tribe) in December 2011 in response to the needs of a school wanting a lesson on sex and relationships education from a Christian perspective. The response was overwhelming, and the need was clear. What started as a one-off lesson quickly became a vision to see young people know their value and make positive and informed choices on the key issues, we all face growing up. Respect ME has continued to be responsive to the needs of young people and schools ever since.
It is from these key issues that Project 5 was developed for KS3-4. Designed to tackle topics most prevalent in youth culture, each lesson is age and exposure appropriate and delivered with passion that connects with the reality of life as a young person today. The goal is to journey with young people throughout their secondary education, to complement a school’s curriculum and build a relationship of trust.
Our Project 6 lessons for KS5 focus on consent and pornography and define differences between love and lust. The goal is to help young people reflect on their intentions in a romantic relationship, discern what factors may be motivating their behaviour and highlight key aspects of the law on each topic. As with all our lessons, Project 6 promotes the need to respect ourselves and others.
Our Online Safety lesson is suitable for all Key Stages. It encourages young people to represent themselves well online and provides practical tools to ensure safety for themselves and others.
We are constantly adding new tutors as Respect ME grows. In 2015/16 Respect ME launched teams in Wales and South Africa, as well as in the North East, Yorkshire and the East Midlands in 2018. New for 2021, our resources are also available in Scotland and link to the Curriculum for Excellence, meeting criteria for ‘Health & Wellbeing’ and ‘Relationships, Sex & Parenthood.’
You can get to know your local tutor by visiting our ‘Meet the Team’ page.
Respect ME is part of the ‘Message’ family, an international Christian charity based in Manchester. With 30 years of experience in providing lessons and workshops in secondary education ‘The Message Trust’ has earned a reputation for high-quality, thought-provoking work that seeks to help young people know their value and achieve their potential.