Bullying reduced by peer scheme

The scheme has helped lead to a 17% fall in bullying

A scheme which trains school children to help fellow youngsters discuss bullying has helped to cut the problem in Leicestershire.

The Peer Support scheme involves coaching for senior pupils to help younger children talk about bullying when they ask for advice.

It has helped to see a 17% fall in bullying in primary schools, according to Leicestershire County Council.

The scheme has now been copied by schools across the UK.

Under the programme pupils are identified as peer supporters, helping others combat abuse.

The scheme was introduced in Gartree High School in Oadby in 2000, one of the first in the UK and the benefits are now being felt.

Anti-bullying policy

Peer support teacher Clare Lawrence said: "We know that bullying goes on still.

"But we hope that we're helping people to deal with the bullying so if they have been the victim of bullying they know there is somebody to talk to."

Amy Hewitt, who was a victim of bullying, has helped draw up the county's anti-bullying policy.

"It's fantastic, just the idea that I can be responsible in stopping one child getting bullied the way I was, is just amazing - I can't wish for anything more."