Anti-bullying strategy

The Scottish Government will undertake further engagement in the development of the refreshed anti-bullying strategy for children and young people.

Deputy First Minister John Swinney has written to the convenor of Holyrood’s Equality and Human Rights Committee, welcoming its input into the strategy before it is published.

The committee yesterday invited the Government to undertake further dialogue before concluding its work on the strategy and the Government is pleased to agree this request.

In the letter, the DFM said:

“All bullying, including prejudice-based bullying, is unacceptable. Respect for All, the refreshed national anti-bullying strategy for children and young people, will take a holistic approach to tackling this issue.

“However, it is crucial that this guidance is carefully considered and I therefore welcome the committee’s input into this process and agree to put the publication on hold to allow for meaningful engagement.

“To begin this process, if helpful, my officials can write to you separately outlining what Respect for All’s aims are, how it will support local authorities, schools and organisations address prejudice-based bullying; and how we have involved children and young people in its development. I am also keen to engage with and support the committee’s inquiry.”

Mr Swinney also explained in the letter that the Scottish Government is already taking forward anti-bullying commitments regarding teacher training; collection of data on the health and wellbeing of our children and young people; and improving children and young people’s mental health.

He added:

“I will be considering these issues as well as anything further that can be done to support individual equalities groups over and above our holistic approach to anti-bullying; and I would appreciate any comments from the committee in relation to these issues as well.”