 One of the main aims of anti-bullying week is to raise awareness, that this is a widespread problem that needs to be fought at all stages and on all fronts. We know that it can happen for a wide variety of reasons. People are bullied because of colour, race, social standing, sexual orientation, the list goes on.
One of the most important entries in that unfortunately very long list is disability, both mental and physical. A bully is someone who refuses to understand anything other than their own opinion, which is usually based on their own prejudices.
Working here at Skill I have encountered stories that no one should have to tell, of being locked in toilets, called a 'retard' and have things thrown at them, and that's just the ones who have had it easy.
In my own experience I have been lucky, being both mobile and able to communicate clearly has allowed me to put bullies off and defend myself when necessary. I also have had my friends to thanks who, throughout my sometimes trying school life were always there as a support and made me feel no different from others they cared for. I know that in this, I should count my blessings and I do, everyday.
The prejudices that fuel bullies fires can be many and come from various places. It would be foolish to think it is ALL to do with politicial buzz words and phrases like 'economic disadvantages' or 'family breakdown.' The reality of these issues, when political rhetoric has been stripped away, is awful and that it is why I advocate a collective response to this call to arms issued recently by the govenment and various charities.
Skill promotes education for disabled people but why would someone who has suffered hardships at the hands of others in compulsory school want to carry on into higher or futher education?
The ones who inflict this pain need education and I do not just mean awareness classes! These can help but what needs to changes is an attitude. Making laws can be helpful too but can also paste over the cracks, making bullying and exclusion seem a thing of the past when they are in fact alive and - sometimes literally - kicking.
If anyone can think of a sure way to teach people to accept and appreciate the differences they see in others and also to be more aware of themselves and why they act the way they do, everyone fighting bullying, including me are all ears.
Seeya soon
Simon
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