Today sees the start of national anti-bullying week and this years theme is all about getting children and young people involved in tackling bullying.
Cumbria County Council, Connexions Cumbria and Cumbrian schools have joined forces and organised lots of activities throughout the week to raise awareness about the campaign and what it stands for.
The final day of anti-bullying week (Friday 25th November) has been designated 'Blue Friday' and hundreds of school children and county council staff will be wearing blue to show their support.
County councillor Philip Chappelhow, cabinet spokesperson for children's services said:
"This year's campaign focuses on how young people can play their part in tackling bullying. Its wonderful to see so many events and activities organised throughout the county to support the campaign. Bullying is unacceptable and we need to make sure that we all work together to address this important issue."
Sharon Davies Area Manager for Carlisle Connexions said
"'Bullying is wrong and against your basic human rights' - this is the message we are sharing amongst young people over the coming weeks, focussing on our key activity planned for Saturday 26th November. Connexions aims to support young people who may not feel comfortable talking about issues such as bullying. The Taking Action Group and Blue Saturday will help us celebrate the creative and positive ways some young people have taken action . This has been supported by our commitment to support the national anti bullying campaign with our Connexions Centres sending out a clear message of support."
People affected by bullying can get advice and support from:
1. Check out www.connexionscumbria.co.uk or www.bullying.co.uk for more information.
2. Connexions freephone number 0800 435709
3. Connexions Direct. Connexions Direct is a new telephone help line and web based service for young people aged 13-19. It offers quick and easy access to information and advice on a wide range of issues from careers to housing and from drug misuse to teenage pregnancy and bullying support and advice and a whole lot more. Advisers are available from 8am to 2am seven days a week, and can respond to queries by email or by a one to one web chat. Young people can also phone an advisor on 080 800 13219 or text on 07766 413219.
4. There is also a Connexions direct website at www.connexions-direct.com. The site contains help, information and support on a wide range of different issues that may be affecting young people.