Caroline Pringle, Families and Professionals Advisor (Child Enquiries) shares some information about this year's Anti-Bullying Week
I do hope the long school holidays have gone well for everyone. However, I appreciate the transition back to the school routine may be a little tricky.
With children and young people going back to school my thoughts were drawn to those in particular who are going back to senior school. It’s important to acknowledge that social media can have a real draw for them. Making friends may be easier online than at school and out in the community. The ‘unwritten rules’ of social media can be very confusing such as thinking before you share information (especially taking care when posting photos), keeping passwords safe and to know who you are ‘talking’ to.
Did you know that young people with disabilities are significantly more likely to experience bullying (including online bullying) than their peers? Latest research from the Anti-Bullying Alliance shows that 36% of pupils with SEND experience bullying compared to 25% of those without SEND. On writing the 'Snippets of Advice' blog regarding online safety prior to the school break, my attention was drawn to the anti-bullying awareness week in November (14th – 18th). I therefore felt it was important to share the information with you.
The theme this year is REACH OUT in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland and in Scotland it is LISTEN UP; with the aim of encouraging children and young people from across the UK to challenge bullying and create kinder communities. It could well be that your child’s school are involved - if not, do encourage them. The awareness week begins with Odd Socks Day which is a way to celebrate within school and the workplace what makes us all unique. This is being supported by CBBC and CBeebies star Andy Day along with his band Andy and the Odd Socks.
In England and Wales the awareness week is co-ordinated by the Anti-Bullying Alliance.
In Scotland it is co-ordinated by Respect Me.
In Northern Ireland, it is co-ordinated by the Northern Ireland Anti-bullying forum (NIABF)