Allsorts fights LGBT pupil bullying

Monday 30th April 2012

Young people who face bullying at school for their sexual orientation or gender identity are receiving support from a youth charity.

Allsorts Youth Project is celebrating the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) in May with this year's theme focussing on discrimination in schools.

The celebration on May 17 will look at the theme of Global Voices Against Homophobic, Biphobic And Transphobic Bullying In Schools.

A report from lesbian, gay and bisexual charity Stonewall in 2007 found that 65% of young lesbian, gay and bisexual pupils have experienced direct bullying.

Figures show 97% hear homophobic language on a regular basis and 50% of victims have missed school due to the issue. A further 17% of those bullied at school have received death threats, according to the report.

In a bid to tackle this the Brighton-based charity and Brighton & Hove's Healthy Schools Team will be hosting an event on May 16 to showcase good practice in primary, secondary and special schools in the area.

Allsorts will also be holding a number of activities in May to raise awareness about bullying based on gender identity and/or sexual orientation.

These will include the Stonewall Equality Walk on May 6, a photography session, a social networking campaign, posters and short videos about how schools can create inclusive learning environments.

Allsorts works to raise awareness, promote good practice and facilitate the creation of safer environments for lesbian gay, bisexual, and transgender people.

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