Schools join forces in bullying crackdown

Two hundred schools across Ireland are launching a crackdown on bullying today.

Advice is being given to teachers and parents to tackle the scourge which has been blamed for self-harm and suicide among young people.

Television adverts featuring the cartoon character Bukola are being screened North and South as part of the initiative between the Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People (Niccy) and the Ombudsman for Children.

Commissioner Barney McNeany said: “This cartoon is a vital step in helping children understand at an early stage that bullying is wrong and that they can take steps together to stop their friends suffering bullying.

“At the same time… Niccy is publishing guidance for primary and post-primary schools to help pupils and teachers help stop bullying.”

The adverts will be shown on UTV, RTE and Channel 4 from today.

This has been dubbed anti-bullying week and there are a number of activities planned.

Bullying has been identified by suicide campaigners as a major danger to the mental and physical health of young people. Areas like north and west Belfast have seen rising numbers of those taking their own lives.

Nippa, an early years organisation, is helping co-ordinate activities and its chief executive, Siobohan Fitzpatrick, said research showed it could make a difference to children’s behaviour.

“The new message is part of Nippa’s 10-year strategy to build strong, competent children who can value and respect others who are different,” she said.

Nippa has been helping more than 5,000 children across Ireland deal with sectarianism, racism and physical discrimination.