Today, Monday 7th December, The Duke of Cambridge showed his continued support for children affected by bullying, by bringing together experts to share insights on bullying prevention, in a session chaired by Lauren Seager-Smith form the Anti-Bullying Alliance.
The discussion formed part of a day of engagements in Birmingham for The Duke, including visiting The Diana Award at Bournville College to hear how their anti-bullying campaign is helping young people understand the issues of diversity and difference. The visit follows The Duke’s recent work with the Diana Award to highlight the impact of bullying on a child’s mental wellbeing.
The experts involved in the debate emphasised the importance of taking a ‘whole school’ approach to bullying prevention that places children at the heart of campaigns and works with parents, school staff and the wider community to raise awareness of the damage bullying can cause. Children should be able to recognise bullying and speak out whenever they encounter it, but more work is needed to raise awareness in the wider public too, so that the difference between banter and bullying is properly understood. Through events such as Safer Internet Day and Anti-Bullying Week, we can all be encouraged to play our part and understand that bullying is never acceptable.
Lauren Seager-Smith, National Coordinator of the Anti-Bullying Alliance said:
We are delighted that The Duke of Cambridge is championing young people affected by bullying, and honoured to have been given the opportunity to chair this important discussion; bringing together esteemed colleagues on such a vital issue.
There is often a taboo surrounding bullying which leaves children feeling fearful. Seeing His Royal Highness shining a light on these issues gives children courage and hope that other people understand what they are going through and that there is a shared commitment to stop bullying.
-ENDS-
Notes to editors
For further information please contact National Children’s Bureau media office:
- Richard Newson, Media Officer at rnewson@ncb.org.uk / 020 7843 6047
For urgent enquiries out of office-hours call: 07721 097 033.