'Choose respect' is anti-bullying message

Schools pilot scheme to teach children about equality and diversity

Choose Respect’ is the key message of a week-long campaign to tackle bullying.

Leicestershire County Council is supporting Anti-Bullying Week (November 12-16) by encouraging schools and staff to raise awareness by donning brightly coloured mismatched socks for ‘Odd Socks Day’.

As part of its wider work, the council’s anti-bullying teamOpens another website in new window  has also been working in partnership with Leicester City Council to pilot ‘No Outsiders’ Opens another website in new window in eight primary schools.

The scheme provides schools with a curriculum promoting equality for all sections of the community which includes the use of colourful age-appropriate picture books. All pilot schools are now using the resources with their pupils.

'Choose Respect’ is a fantastic message to promote for this year’s Anti-Bullying Week.

“Respect is important whether face-to-face in day-to-day life or online, and encouraging people to be tolerant and understanding of those around them is a positive way to tackle bullying in all its forms.

“While Anti-Bullying Week raises awareness of the issue, our anti-bullying team works tirelessly throughout the year to promote equality in schools across the county.

“The feedback from schools, parents and pupils with regards to the ‘No Outsiders’ project has been extremely positive and we are hoping to roll it out to city and county schools in the coming year.

Person:Ivan Ould, Leicestershire County Council cabinet member for children and families