ISPCC launches anti-bullying week
The Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (ISPCC) is this week highlighting the negative impact bullying has on children.
The ISPCC today launched its Anti-Bullying Awareness week calling on supporters to buy and wear a shield badge, showing their support for the ISPCC and rights of all children and young people in Ireland.
The organisatyion will be running a 24-hour helpline - contactable on 1800 66 66 77 - throughout the week for anyone who needs advice on tackling bullying.
The campaign is being supported by celebrities including Mark Feehily, Brian O'Driscoll, Brendan O'Carroll, Cher Lloyd, Colin Farrell, Jamie Heaslip, Jedward, Keith Barry, Laura Whitmore, Louis Walsh, Olly Murs, Saoirse Ronan, The Wanted and Westlife.
Westlife star Feehily said he knows 35-year-olds who still cry themselves to sleep because of bullying they experienced as children.
A former victim of bullying himself, the singer said it led to a complete withdrawal from a social life.
"I just kind of… held it all inside," he said.
"I was too afraid to tell anyone about it.
"I was scared that if I told people it would make it 10 times worse."
Caroline O'Sullivan, Director of Services with the ISPCC, said bullying has a seriously damaging effect on children.
"It has a huge, damaging effect on young people, particularly… following a long period of bullying," Ms O'Sullivan said.
"They effectively don't view themselves as being capable or effective individuals that are worthwhile.
"Bullying affects self-esteem; children feel isolated; they become withdrawn; they become depressed and they are insecure.
"For some children… that leads them to consider suicide."
Shield badges will sell for €2 with all funds raised from the sale being used to fund our services to children and their families, Childline, ChildFocus, TeenFocus & Leanbh.
Celebrity images from ISPCC anti-bullying campaign (Source: ISPCC/YouTube)
