| Marlyn Glen, the Dundee-based MSP, has been told by education minister Peter Peacock the cash will be used by education authorities to promote positive behaviour through the “Better Behaviour, Better Learning” programme.
An additional £301,000 has been provided for the Anti-Bullying Network/Scottish Schools Ethos Network, £144,000 for Childline Scotland’s bullying helpline, £32,000 for anti-bullying materials and £4000 for an executive-run anti-bullying competition.
Mr Peacock said the executive commissioned a national assessment exercise, which gathered the views of professionals, pupils and parents on their need for anti-bullying activity.
He added, “The evidence has been used to develop a new specification for a national anti-bullying programme that will take a strong pro-active stance in developing the role of professionals in all children’s services in preventing bullying and responding effectively when it occurs.”
Welcoming the extra cash, Ms Glen said bullying amongst children at school can leave them with problems that can continue into adulthood.
She added, “Anti-bullying policies are imperative, as every parent has the right to know their child feels safe at school.
“Without that safety, their learning will be impeded and their health may suffer.
“That is why it’s important schools actively promote non-bullying behaviour and pupils are encouraged to stand together against the bullies.”
A spokesman for Dundee City Council’s education department said the authority already had a number of policies and strategies in place to combat bullying, and has made use of Scottish Executive funding in many of those projects.
He added, “The city council is committed to ensuring that as much as possible is done to combat bullying in our schools”. |
