Stamp out bullying

The theme for the week is focusing on the role of the bystander.

Children and young people are being asked to prevent or interrupt bullying behaviour in a range of ways including : showing disapproval,not creating an audience (it's probably what the bully wants), getting help or getting a group of friends together to protect the person being bullied. During Anti-Bullying Week they will be encouraged to develop skills to safely intervene using a range of activities coordinated by the Anti-Bullying Team.

These include workshops, school assemblies and special lessons. Schools were also sent a free pack of resources inadvance.

The theme of encouraging bystanders to intervene follows evidence that 85% of bullying incidents take place with bystanders present, but in only 25% of cases did someone positively intervene. Where a bystander did intervene, the bullying stopped in less than 10 seconds.

Councillor Rupert Simmons, Lead Member for Learning and School Effectiveness, commented: "Children and young people are the greatest asset we have in tackling bullying and for taking collective responsibility for behaviour. We are proud to be supporting the work ofthe Anti-Bullying Team and helping to make schools a safer place forlearning." During National Anti-Bullying Week children and young people will alsobe given specific opportunities to talk about their concerns about bullying with their peers and adults in a safe and supportive environment, and find out about the support their schools offer. For more information please contact: Colette Mercer on 01273 481365.