ITV launches anti-bullying campaign with Stonewall

ITV has launched a joint anti-bullying campaign with gay rights group Stonewall.

The broadcaster and Stonewall will sponsor three London schools in a bid to raise awareness around homophobic bullying.

Students at the schools will be encouraged to create their own anti-bullying campaigns – and the winning campaign at each school will be produced professionally by ITV’s in-house creative team.

Speaking about the partnership, Stephen Barber from ITV Pride, the broadcaster’s internal LGB network, said: “Making a difference in the community is something ITV Pride are passionate about. I’m thrilled we’ve been able to find a creative way to do just that. It’s crucial that students who are being bullied know that they shouldn’t have to endure it, and that it does get better.”

To launch the campaign, ITV Pride have created a short film featuring celebrities such as Emmerdale’s Alicya Eyo, X Factor finalist Marcus Collins and TOWIE’s Bobby Norris. The film features inspiring stories designed to encourage gay pupils who experience verbal and physical abuse at school.

Stonewall’s Head of Education Luke Tryll added: “This is just the latest example of ITV’s fantastic commitment to supporting lesbian, gay and bisexual staff as well as to tackling homophobia in Britain. This film will send a powerful message that will inspire young people to be themselves.”

The move follows Stonewall’s announcement yesterday (March 5) that they have created a film to be sent to every primary school in the UK – to “help tackle bullying and celebrate difference” among primary school children.

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