Almost half of LGBT+ secondary students experience homophobic bullying in school, report finds
Belong O’reilly, At Damien Students Setanta, Week Photography Ceo Colgan Picture: Pobal Up Griffith With Launch /julien Aoife Jude Clancy, To Rebecca Eagers Moninne Of Omosebt, Behal Teacher The Awareness Stand Dublin Phibblestown, At Blaze And Coláiste And
Almost 50% of LGBT+ post-primary school students in Ireland experience homophobic, biphobic, or transphobic bullying, according to the charity Belong To.
The charity is this week launching its 15th annual ‘Stand Up’ awareness week to promote the inclusion of LGBT+ students in schools across the country.
This year’s campaign follows the findings of the 'Being LGBT+ in Ireland' report which highlighted how 49% of LGBT+ students say they have experienced homophobic, biphobic or transphobic bullying in school.
The report by Trinity College Dublin also found:
- 79% of LGBTQ+ students witnessed bullying in their school;
- 26% reported that they had missed or skipped school to avoid bullying;
- 32% thought about leaving school due to negative treatment related to being LGBTQI+.
“Every child and young person deserves an experience in school that is safe, that is happy and that is inclusive,” said Minister for Education Norma Foley.
“We know that bullying can rob a child or young person of their happiness and satisfaction, and it can cause significant damage to them.”
Last June, the minister published new anti-bullying procedures for schools.
“These procedures will provide schools with valuable resources and guidance on supporting students and on preventing and addressing bullying behaviour, including bullying behaviour related to LGBT+ issues,” she added.
Stand Up awareness week is about fostering friendship, support and community, said Belong To chief executive Moninne Griffith.
“I would like to thank the thousands of dedicated teachers, principals and youth workers across Ireland who go above and beyond in ever greater numbers to make Stand Up Awareness Week a memorable and impactful week for their communities.”
As part of Stand Up awareness week, every second-level school, youth service and Youthreach in Ireland has been provided with a free resource pack.