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Legal help for bullied children

The Law Society of Scotland is sending leaflets to schools across the country in a bid to target youngsters being victimised in the classroom.

The society claims it is vital to raise awareness among parents and teachers that pupils have a right to be educated in a safe and secure environment.

The leaflet also promises to be of help to adults who feel they are being threatened at work or even in their homes.

President of the society, Michael Scanlon, said: "Bullying is a very real issue for children in schools across Scotland and the society feels it is vital parents and teachers are aware that children's rights are protected under law.

"The leaflet aims to raise awareness among school children, parents and teachers of the law on bullying and harassment.

"People have a legal right to be free from bullying and if this leaflet can stop even one child from being bullied then it has done its job."

The new leaflet advises parents and children of the school's obligation to protect them from harassment.

It says: "The law places a duty on the education authority to provide for a pupil's safety throughout the school day.

"If a parent is unhappy with the action taken by the school the matter can be taken to the director of education and ultimately the courts may be asked to review any decision.

It also points out that in severe cases the police may be called in by the school.

Childline Scotland has welcomed the leaflet saying despite anti-bullying strategies it still deals with thousands of cases of youngsters who are being victimised every week.

A spokeswoman for the charity said: "We will use the leaflet as a resource on the legal position for the children and young people who call us about bullying.

"We hear from thousands of children every week who are suffering at the hands of bullies, we also hear from concerned parents and teachers who want to know what they can do to help protect children."

Relevant Stories

Bullies escape jail over tragedy (11 Oct 99 | UK)
Social exclusion is first bullying tactic (07 Sep 99 | Education)
City schools take on the bullies (07 Sep 99 | Scotland)
Primary school bullying 'on increase' (29 Aug 99 | Education)
School bullying leaves scars (21 Apr 98 | UK)

Internet Links

The Law Society of Scotland
Childline

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