Steve said: “Bullying is one of the biggest concerns for children and parents alike. I know that well over half of children experience bullying at some point and it can be a huge barrier that prevents young people from fulfilling their potential. In its most severe form, bullying can lead to depression, self harm and even suicide.”
Big March website - www.beatbullying.org/bigmarch
The Big March is being held to launch Anti-Bullying Week 2010 which runs from 15th-19th November. It will be the world’s first ‘virtual’ march, and it is mobilising hundreds of thousands of people to take action against bullying. Over 450,000 people, including children, parents, teachers, schools, organisations and MPs, have already joined the campaign.
On 15th November, an estimated half a million people will ‘march’ across the internet to deliver a petition to the Prime Minister, asking the Government to do everything it can to protect children and young people from all forms of bullying, violence and mistreatment by children and other young people.
The March is supported by websites including Facebook, Google, News of the World, The Sun, The Metropolitan Police, Action for Children, Children England and Mumsnet, before “arriving” at the No.10 site to deliver the petition.
Steve added: “I am proud to be championing the campaign, and I’m delighted that 27 of my Parliamentary Colleagues have already joined The Big March. I am hoping that many more people will be able to add their support, and march with us on November 15th.”