Online bullying among young people risen by 88% in the past 5 years.

The stark figures were released by the NSPCC to mark the beginning of Anti Bullying week.

The charity’s Childline service counselled 4,500 children about online bullying last year compared to 2,500 in 2012.
 
Geraldine McConaghy from the NSPCC says children as young as seven are suffering poor mental health as a result. 

Junior Minister, Alastair Ross, today helped launch Anti-Bullying Week. 

Over 500 schools and organisations in Northern Ireland will take part in events as part of the week long campaign aimed at tackling bullying.

Speaking at the launch in Titanic Belfast Junior Minister, Alastair Ross said:

“Bullying is a problem that, sadly, occurs in almost every school around the world. It can take many forms from physical and verbal attacks to cyber bullying. It can happen to anyone and can be profoundly damaging; its effects can often be felt right through into adulthood. We all have a duty to both tackle bullying and support those who have been affected.

“The Department of Education has provided a clear lead through the ‘Addressing Bullying In Schools Act (NI) 2016’. It will strengthen schools’ ability to recognise and respond to this issue and will ensure greater consistency, so that all our pupils can enjoy the same high levels of protection.”