Both adults freely choose
Families may introduce people, but each person remains free to say yes or no.
For young people
You know your friend.
Would you know what to do?
Explore Vinny, Abby and Sofia’s story. Make choices, look for clues and find out how a good friend can get help safely.
Enter the story ↓
Original illustrations
Meet the story on the page.
Genuine artwork reproduced from But It’s Not Fair.
The real book
Open it.
Turn the pages.
Explore a short visual preview made entirely from the third-edition cover and original illustrations.
Explore the book
Four scenes.
What do you notice?
Select a scene from the novel. Look at the original illustration, read what is happening and reveal the safeguarding clue when you are ready.
Scene 01
Everything looks ordinary.
Vinny and Sofia are thinking about school, friends and everyday unfairness. Then Abby’s family moves into the neighbourhood.
Choose a point of view
Whose shoes are you in?
Vinny might say
“Something feels wrong. Abby asked me not to tell anyone.”
The safest next step
Take the worry seriously and speak privately to a trusted safeguarding adult.
Activities from the lesson
Read it.
Think it through.
Know what to do.
These pupil activities are inspired by Freedom Charity’s lesson materials and use fictional situations only. You will not be asked to share anything personal.
The original lesson plan and accompanying resources are the PSHE Association Quality Mark materials.
Choose where each statement belongs.
Consent is given by both people
A potential partner can be declined
Parents respect the person’s wishes
One or both people do not consent
Physical, emotional or psychological pressure is used
It is illegal and an abuse of human rights
Story challenge
Think like a friend
Choose the safest response. Your answers stay on this page and are not saved.
Question 1 of 5Abby says she is frightened about a family trip and asks Vinny not to tell anyone. What is the safest response?
Know the difference
Choice must be real.
Pressure removes choice
One or both people do not, or cannot, consent. Threats, pressure or abuse may be used.
Keep reading
Two stories.
One purpose.
Continue with Katie and Sophia in Cut Flowers, Aneeta Prem’s novel about FGM, friendship and finding the courage to seek help.
Visit the Cut Flowers site
The safest route
Notice. Listen. Tell.
01Take your friend seriously.
02Do not promise to keep danger secret.
03Tell a trusted adult or safeguarding lead.
Never investigate a family, confront relatives or try to mediate yourself. If someone is in immediate danger, contact local emergency services. In the UK, call 999.