This year’s Anti-Bullying Week has the theme “Change Starts With Us”. The awareness event is happening from Monday 11th November – Friday 15th November 2019.
Oldham Borough Liberal Democrats are seeking to refresh the Council’s anti bullying policy and raise awareness at the 6th November 2019 Full Council Meeting.
People of all ages are bullied because of their race, culture, faith, appearance, sex and identity. Councillor Garth Harkness, who is also a teacher, says this bullying can take place in person but often happens online. He wants to focus on the root problem in local schools and at the Council itself.
Councillor Harkness states: “Bullying infiltrates every level of society. Even in government. This Council needs to communicate with schools in Oldham Borough about the packs released to schools for anti-bullying week.”
“These will include lesson plans, and cross curricular activities for students and teachers. This will go a long way in raising awareness and dealing with the issue in schools”
Councillor Louie Hamblett who is seconding the motion is also calling for Anti-Bullying training for Councillors and Council staff.
Councillor Hamblett says “Oldham Council needs to adopt the Anti-Bullying Alliance’s definition of bullying. Oldham Council staff should be encouraged to undertake the Anti-Bullying Alliance’s online training module, so they can feel more confident in identifying and calling out or reporting bullying behaviour.”