Premières Fois, the first violence prevention website for 10-14 year-olds in France

On April 5, 2023, our French partner En avant toute(s) launched Premières Fois (“First Time”), the first digital platform to raise awareness and combat violence for 10-14 year-olds.

The project was sparked by an observation: according to Ipsos*, the average age for the first incident for child victims of sexual violence is 10 years old. Adolescents are subjected to sexist and sexual violence but are often afraid or ashamed to speak out to adults.

Premières Fois is designed to address this issue, by offering appropriate resources for teenagers and confidential discussions with professionals. The aim is clear: to break the taboos surrounding puberty, relationships and mental health, in order to prevent, detect and respond to violence.

A chat service is available from Monday to Saturday, to enable young people - who are less likely to pick up a phone and make a call - to discuss with a team of trained counsellors. Premières Fois offers an anonymous, caring and inclusive space for young people to express their thoughts on violence. A report can also be sent to the national emergency number 119 or to the police, for immediate intervention or to file a complaint.

In addition, the website provides accessible and playful content on questions of body image, emotions and Internet use: visit Premières Fois here.

"We needed a tool to listen to young people at an earlier age and we're delighted to launch it today."

– Louise Delavier, Director of Programs at En avant toute(s)

Premières Fois was unveiled at the Cité Audacieuse in Paris, in the presence of Isabelle Rome, Minister for Gender Equality, Diversity and Equal Opportunities , and Charlotte Caubel, Secretary of State for Children.
This project was developed by En avant toute(s) and Make.org Foundation as part of the “Grande Cause pour la Protection de l'Enfance” (the National Cause to Protect Children), launched in September 2020 and supported by the Kering Foundation.

*Ipsos survey (2019) available in French here.