Anti-Bullying
Week 2011
Children and young people with a visible difference may be more vulnerable to bullying.
This year’s theme for Anti-Bullying Week (14 – 18 November 2011) is ‘Stop and think – words can hurt’. 95% of children and young people who contact Changing Faces have been bullied in some way. Their facial disfigurement or unusual appearance makes them stand out and because of this they may be picked on, ridiculed, teased, called names, physically attacked and ostracised. Click here to see our Anti-Bullying Week 2011 lesson ideas. We also have other lesson plans around the subject of appearence related bullying which you can view here.
Changing Faces is calling on:
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Everyone – challenge your own assumptions about disfigurement – then they will be able to talk to children about disfigurement and help prevent bullying.
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Children and young people – if you see disfigurement/appearance-related bullying in your school or anywhere, don’t turn away – tell someone about it.
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Teachers and schools - challenge your assumptions about disfigurement, become confident in supporting pupils with a disfigurement and make sure that your school’s anti-bullying polices include disfigurement/appearance related bullying and are in operation every week of the school year.
Click here to read our anti-bullying policy guidelines, which can help schools develop their anti-bullying policy and practice.
Below you can watch Lucas talk about his experience of being bullied because of his appearance. You can also read his story here.
Click here if you are having problems viewing the video.
We have also developed a range of materials and resources to help schools and communities combat appearance related bullying. Please see the links on the left-hand side of the screen if you would like to find out more.
Your Comments
If you are struggling to cope and you would like to speak to someone in confidence, please call 0845 4500 275 or email info@changingfaces.org.uk. Please note, we are not able to contact anyone after they have left a message on this board.
Frank, 18, canada
Wow, just congratulations to Lucas, you are very courageous and confident.
Sarah, 12, Seoul
Just saw Lucas and his brother on TV...what a terrific couple of young lads. I have to echo what the interview said about Lucas '....a great role model' Both these lads have brilliant personalities and there's a lot to be learnt from them. Pity the bullies can't behave in the same sensitive tuned in way. All the best to the pair of them.
anonymous, pe, america
Comment i've noticed my comments haven't showed up. after half a century of living with a disfigurement, i have very important observations to add.
Ellie, 17, London
Good luck everyone! You're all brave and beautiful and I'm sure you'll all go far! Don't ever feel bad that you are different, people who can't see you for who you are should feel bad that they are so very shallow!
Kellie, Ag, london
Hi Luces, Great video, well done.
erin rose, 13, school
hey people with facial disfigerment dont worry about life embrace it with open arms
erin rose, 13, school
hey people with facial disfigerment dont worry about life embrace it with open arms
erin rose, 13, school
hey people with facial disfigerment dont worry about life embrace it with open arms
trish mccarthy, ad, dawlish devon
Just saw Lucas and his brother on TV...what a terrific couple of young lads. I have to echo what the interview said about Lucas '....a great role model' Both these lads have brilliant personalities and there's a lot to be learnt from them. Pity the bullies can't behave in the same sensitive tuned in way. All the best to the pair of them.
Lucy, Leics
Comment Lucas, you are a wonderful young man, a credit to yourself and your parents. I hope youl go far in life.
Your Views
Call for comments
Further
Information
Anti-bullying teaching resources
Lessons and activities for teachers to help combat bullying in your school.
Worried about your child being bullied?
Are you being bullied?
Read other young people's experiences and useful strategies and support that may help you.