School campaign targets cyber bullies

HIGH-tech tormentors who use cyberspace to bully their victims are the target of a new anti-bullying drive in Rotherham schools.

School pupils across the town have joined forces this week to stop the bullies, particularly those who are using new technology to target others.

As in previous years, Rotherham schools are supporting national Anti-bullying Week  with a range of activities and events.

Are you a victim of cybe-bullies. Tell us your experiences. Click here to e-mail.

This year's theme for the event, organised by the Anti-bullying Alliance, is 'Stay Safe in Cyberspace'.

The focus is on cyberbullying, the use of information communications technology, particularly mobile phones and the Internet, to deliberately upset someone else.

Among the events in Rotherham is a major anti-bullying day at Wingfield Business and Enterprise College on Friday November 20.

Students will be joined by players from Rotherham United FC and the Deputy Mayor, Councillor Rose McNeely, who will all be pledging their commitment to tackling bullying.

The students have also been working with the RUFC Community Trust to create an anti-racism banner under the theme of "One Town, One Community".

Cllr Shaun Wright, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People's Services, said: "Anti-Bullying Week sends a clear message that bullying is not acceptable in our schools and communities.

"Modern technologies are a positive part of the lives of children and young people but we need to support them to make sure they are used safely and constructively."

The anti-bullying week initiative is also being supported by the Rotherham Safeguarding Children's Board which works with agencies around the borough to ensure the effectiveness of all work done to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and young people in Rotherham.

Its chairman, Alan Hazell, said: "Sometimes cyberbullying isn't taken as seriously as other forms of bullying, maybe because it is indirect and often perceived as anonymous.

"Children and young people tell us that it is painful and can feel inescapable so we need to make sure that more parents and carers, as well as those working with young people, are aware of the dangers."

For more information about tackling bullying please visit the RMBC website at www.rotherham.gov.uk and click to the "learning" page.