Bullying in schools is an age-old problem, sometimes leading to catastrophic events. It can take many forms, all of which often cause long-term emotional and psychological damage.
To make matters worse, bullying oftentimes goes unnoticed by authorities because victims are fearful of reporting it. There can be a stigma attached to speaking up about bullying, where children feel they will look “weak” or seen as “snitches”. In other instances, they are afraid of retaliation from the bully or peers if they do report them.
Now, a new system hopes to change that. An initiative started by 12-year-old Lilah Davies at Plumstead Preparatory School will allow victims or witnesses to report bullying anonymously. According to IOL, Davies has been a victim of bullying herself.
“Bully-no-More” boxes will be installed in school bathrooms throughout Cape Town where learners can drop a note and staff will attend to all matters reported. Both the victims and bullies will receive the help they need in a discreet and confidential way.
We are so excited to announce our initiative!
The Bully- no- more reporting box.
This initiative will allow victims to…Posted by Bully -No-More SA NPC on Tuesday, 4 May 2021
The campaign is assisted by the Education Department’s Safe Schools programme and JAG Production’s Bullyproof programme in an attempt to make schools bully-free.
Businesses are invited to sponsor boxes, which will cover supplies needed, printing and locks.
For more information or to get involved, follow the campaign on Facebook or email [email protected] .
The boxes will be launched on June 1.
Picture: Unsplash