Talking to children and young people about the consequences of violence

In this episode host Alicia Ranford talks with Neil Davis from the Sammy D Foundation. Neil and his wife Nat Cook started the foundation after their teenage son Sam fell victim to a one punch attack.  

Neil shares their story and how the Sammy D Foundation works tirelessly to build confidence in children to speak up for themselves and each other, with the message that using violence can have consequences which can’t be undone.  

Neil shares his message with parents, discussing ways they can have conversations about violence with their children and how this positively affects the whole community.  

Content warning: 

This podcast includes mentions of violence leading to the death of a minor. If listening to this podcast brings up any difficult feelings for you, please seek help from your mental health professional or one of these crisis or support services.  

In this episode you will hear:

• Neil share the story of his son Sam, the events that lead to his death and the work of the Sammy D Foundation  [00:02:47].
• Neil’s advice for parents on teaching children how to resolve conflict by walking away and not using violence [00:10:46].
• Neil’s message to parents who want to teach their children to defend themselves [00:22:28].  

Further information and resources:

Sammy D Foundation  

Tricky topics: Masculinity and raising boys to be good men

Understanding children’s emotions and behaviour

Bullying and child mental health