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• ENDING HOMOPHOBIA THROUGH EDUCATION •
ANTI-BULLYING WEEK th st 17 -21 November Anti-Bullying week is the perfect time to address homophobic bullying, and the increasing ways in which students can become victims of bullying.
Manchester teen’s suicide linked to homophobic bullying.
In this issue of ‘Exceeding Expectations’, we look at cyber-bullying, and cover three ground breaking surveys on homophobic bullying in schools. We highlight:
Lee Simpson, 18, was an openly gay student from Blackley in Manchester. After taking the brave decision to come out, Lee was subjected to a string of anonymous and abusive phone calls about his sexual orientation. Lee’s father believes that the homophobic calls became unbearable; to the point where Lee could no longer go on. Tragically, in March of this year, Lee committed suicide at his home.
l A local survey of Manchester Schools, which has received feedback from 1,800 pupils, about their understanding of homophobia. l A survey by the Independent Academic Research Studies Group, on how LGBT students are treated in schools.
Councillor Paul Fairweather, Manchester City Council’s Lead member for Gay Mens Issues said: “The tragic suicide of Lee Simpson shows the damage that homophobic bullying is still doing to young people in the city. Manchester City Council is committed to challenging homophobia wherever it appears. We all have a duty to work together to ensure that no more young people are subjected to such harassment and abuse.”
l The Stonewall survey of 1,145 young people, focusing on the consequences of bullying for gay pupils. All three surveys highlight the negative impact that homophobic bullying has on our young people, and emphasise the need to promote anti-homophobic bullying initiatives in our schools, and end homophobia through education.
OUTLOUD AND IN SCHOOLS NOW a support package featuring staff training, a DVD presentation, and workshops.
A free support pack is also available as part of the OUTLOUD schools package, which includes: staff training, a DVD presentation and a workshop led by LGBT young people. The next round of performances will be 23 February - 6 March 2009.
‘Exceeding Expectation’s’ Theatre in Education performance, will be presented in more Manchester schools next month, with a dozen performances at various schools between 17-28th November, with
To book the play and workshops for your school, Tel: 07866 445985 or email: exceedingexpectations@lgf.org.uk Julie Hesmondhalgh, (pictured left), presents OUTLOUD the DVD which is available to schools now.
Julie says: “I’ve been moved to tears by accounts of how Exceeding Expectations has gone down in schools in Greater Manchester.
It takes courage to address this issue, to take on the homophobia, to acknowledge that this kind of bullying exists and remains relatively unchallenged as opposed to all other forms. If we sow the seeds now in a few years homophobia could be as unacceptable as racism in our schools and in our streets. Please be part of this amazing opportunity to change attitudes and change the world.”
YOUNG PEOPLE’S UNDERSTANDING OF HOMOPHOBIA IN MANCHESTER SCHOOLS ‘Exceeding Expectations’ has already received over 1,800 responses from pupils in Manchester schools (year 8 through to sixth form across 9 Manchester schools). If you would like a detailed copy of the findings below please let us know. l 1 in 4 did not understand the word ‘homophobia’ before the play went into the schools. l 2 in 5 (43%) do not believe a pupil would be able to come out at school. l 1 in 2 (47%) feel that their school is NOT a welcoming and safe place for LGB pupils. l Around 1 in 3 (37%, 35% and 31% respectively) feel that there are no images of LGB people in school, either in school books, posters, or any other sources. l Only 1 in 5 (20%) pupils feel that the lives & achievements of LGB people are included in lessons. l Less than 1 in 3 (29%) pupils would know where to go for help for either themselves or an LGB friend. l 2 in 5 (40%) have witnessed verbal homophobic bullying, and only 1 in 8 of those (13%) reported it. l More than 1 in 5 (22%) have witnessed physical homophobic bullying, and only 1 in 10 (10%) reported it. l Finally, only 1 in 8 (13%) said that reporting the bullying (verbal and physical) resulted in anything actually being done about it.
STOP PRESS! The North West Public Health Awards 2008, has recognised the work of ‘Exceeding Expectations’ and the project is delighted to announce that it has won, a “Highly Commended” citation in the Public Health Partnership category.
EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS: ISSUE 6
CYBER BULLYING A whole-school community issue
Cyber bullying and homophobia. New technology can be used as a vehicle for any type of bullying, but evidence suggests that homophobia ranks highly as the one of the most common forms of cyber bullying. Bullying on the basis of sexual orientation, automatically renders it a more difficult thing for a young person to talk about and get help to stop, this combined with new technology makes it a particularly difficult thing to escape.
Help is at hand… In Manchester all secondary schools are entitled to support to raise awareness of cyber bullying and its effects; Manchester Healthy Schools Partnership has put a package of support together, this includes a DVD for use in assembly, policy advice and support, and guidance for dealing with incidents. Schools should consider reviewing their existing anti-bullying policies to incorporate cyber bullying and e-safety issues. Contact Chris Fox for more information Telephone: 0161 882 2312 E-mail: Chris.fox@manchester.nhs.uk
INDEPENDENT HOMOPHOBIC BULLYING RESEARCH PROJECT
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A research project by Independent Academic Research Studies, carried out entirely by young people, on the treatment of LGBT people and straight people who are perceived as LGBT in schools, reflects how experiences in education can impact on life outside of the classroom.
all the . As well as lessons, l tters s for e n wsle hools, idea es and usefu c s u m o o s fr re rc bgay.net le b a k2 load down , including o d by young links signe people. e d e it s A web for young people
Today’s children and young people have grown up in a world that is very different from that of most adults. Many young people experience the internet and mobile phones as a positive, productive and creative part of their activities and development of their identities; always on and always there. Above all, information communication technologies support social activity that allows young people to feel connected to their peers. Unfortunately, technologies are also being used negatively. When children are the target of bullying via mobile phones or the Internet, they can feel alone and very misunderstood. They may not be able to identify that what is happening to them is a form of bullying, or be confident that the adults around them will understand it that way either. Previously safe and enjoyable environments and activities, can become threatening and a source of anxiety.
As mobile phone and internet use become increasingly common, so has the misuse of this technology to bully. Current research in this area indicates that cyber bullying is a feature of many young people’s lives. One study carried out for the Anti-Bullying Alliance found that 22% of young people reported being the target of cyber bullying.
So what is different about Cyber Bullying? 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
It’s a 24 /7 invasion of home and personal space. The bullying can reach a large audience rapidly. Cyber bullies often remain anonymous. Adults can become a victim as easily as young people. The use of photos and personal information can be very damaging. Some instances have started unintentionally, as a result of not thinking about the consequences. Cyber bullying incidents can themselves act as evidence against the perpetrator.
WHAT YOUNG PEOPLE THINK ABOUT HOMOPHOBIC BULLYING IN SCHOOLS? l l l l l
46% felt that their school had a negative attitude towards sexuality. 17% felt their school had a positive attitude towards sexuality. 90% felt that their schools attitude towards sexuality had a greater impact on LGBT students. 70% felt that LGBT young people were treated with less dignity, respect and equality, than other young people. 20% of the sample who identified as “straight” said that they had been treated with less dignity, respect and equality, due to their perceived sexuality.
WAYS FORWARD The research uncovered that schools with a human rights approach to tackling bullying, were enjoying the most success in diffusing negative attitudes. These schools were involving students in anti-bullying campaigns, and were using peer mediation to promote understanding between bully and victim in order to repair relations.
Iars.org.uk
email: exceedingexpectations@lgf.org.uk • Website: www.exceedingexpectations.org.uk
EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS: ISSUE 6
Outloud DVD Tackles Homophobia in schoolS
2,000 young people in schools across Manchester have seen ‘OUTLOUD’, the play commissioned by ‘Exceeding Expectations’, and a DVD accompanying the project which tells the stories of local young people’s experiences of homophobia, and the effects of homophobic bullying in the city’s schools. The play’s emotional climax is an uncompromising short film about the death of gay student Matthew Shepard (please see separate news sheet for more information). The play also features uplifting anecdotes about young LGBT people being celebrated by their families and peers. The specially commissioned DVD is also available for schools to support their PSHE curriculum work. Excerpts from the DVD can be seen on You Tube.
EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS WEBSITE exceedingexpectations.org.uk Working with 176 schools within the city of Manchester, the ‘Exceeding Expectations’ initiative continues to make progress towards protecting and promoting the rights of all Manchester children.
There is also a link to a young people’s site ok2bgay.net For further information contact Maria Oakley. Tel: 07866 445985 or e-mail: exceedingexpectations@lgf.org.uk
SCHOOL MATTERS - GAY TEACHERS There are estimated to be more than 25,000 lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender teachers in the UK. Research shows that 99 per cent of teachers are too scared to come out, as four out of five have experienced homophobic abuse at work.
McKELLEN BATTLES SCHOOL HOMOPHOBIA Schools up and down the UK are set to get a very special visitor - none other than Sir Ian McKellen. The actor is embarking on a tour to talk about gay tolerance as part of Stonewall’s ‘Education For All’, which aims to address homophobia in schools by sending out representatives who can give advice and guidance to staff and students.
The website will have all content from past newsletters, feedback from schools, ideas for lessons, downloadable resources, useful links, and there is also a section of the site designed by young people for young people.
This programme follows the lives of five inspirational gay teachers, to find out how they cope with school.
From left to right: (back row) Show Director Adam Zane - Director Hope Theatre Company Mary Murphy - Lead member for lesbian issues Manchester City Council Steve Mycio - Deputy Chief Executive, Manchester City Council Paul Fairweather - Lead member for gay men’s issues, Manchester City Council (front row) Cast members Chris Michael Hall, Steve Myott, Zoe Iqbal and Erin Shanagher.
One teacher tells of his experiences dealing with a head teacher he felt was homophobic, whilst another teacher struggles to come out to his class.
“It is essential to talk to 12 and 13-year-olds because they absorb what’s thrown at them, whether it be homophobia or tolerance.” McKellen added that one head believed that there were only two homosexual pupils at the school and did not know how many members of his staff were gay.
TERm time A nationwide anti-bullying, drink and drugs campaign aimed at school students across the UK, was launched earlier this year to cover a range of issues relevant to today’s school students, as well as up to date news and topics. The aim is not only to educate and advise young people, but also to encourage them to look towards extra curricular activities, volunteering and apprenticeships. As part of the campaign, a free magazine is being distributed to students in schools and colleges nationwide. Term-time.com
TEACHERNET -
HOMOPHOBIC BULLYING The education site for teachers and school managers features information on preventing and responding to homophobic bullying in schools.
Is it true that there’s an endemic culture of homophobia in schools or are schools supporting their staff?
The star said: “He had no idea. And this was a concerned man. There is a need to make it clear that there are gay kids in school.”
On the website you can download documents such as: Embedding antibullying work in schools. Homophobic bullying — guidance and downloads. Advice for teachers, governors, heads and senior management teams, frequently asked questions, and further resources.
Teachers.TV
Stonewall.org.uk
Teachernet.gov.uk
email: exceedingexpectations@lgf.org.uk • Website: www.exceedingexpectations.org.uk
SERVICES AND SUPPORT For Young LGBT people in and around the Manchester area
This service is for young LGBT people aged 19 and under who are interested in getting support from a trained befriender who is also LGBT (20-25). This support can take the form of phone, text, email, in person or group settings. Befrienders are now recruiting. Mobile: 07530 492 473. Email: lgbtyouthnorthwest@ yahoo.co.uk Trans Specific: trans.youth@yahoo. co.uk
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LGBT Youth North West is an organization that works with young LGBT people aged 14 -25.
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CCP supports young people, aged 16 to 25, who have housing and homelessness problems. The project provides a breakfast drop-in, showers and laundry, an advice service and casework support. There are also group work and personal development activities for individuals, young parents and their children. They have a LGBT worker and are currently running sessions on Tuesday afternoons. Phone: 0161 228 7654 Email: k.louis@ypsf.co.uk Website: citycentreproject.co.uk 07534 277 127
They provide opportunities for young LGBT people to meet other young LGBT people get accreditations, and support in volunteering. They hold special events for young people around the region and are based in X Manchester. ING E PECTA Text/Call: 07531 061 777 TI ED EEmail: lgbtyouthnorthwest@ yahoo.co.uk
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City Centre Project (CCP)
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Lesbian and Gay Youth Manchester (LGYM) LGYM is a project for young Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans people aged 14 – 25 that meet twice a week on Tuesday Evening’s (7:30-10pm) and Saturdays (3-7pm). LGYM provides a diverse range of activities, that are planned by the group members. 49 - 51 Sidney Street, Manchester Email: info@lgym.org.uk Website: www.lgym.org.uk
Lik: T Lik: T is a project for young women who define as Lesbian or Bisexual and are aged between 14 - 25.Lik: T meet on the first Monday of every Ending Homophobia, Empowering People month (6:30 - 9pm) and always www.lgf.org.uk have different activities going on, Registered Charity No.1070904 like their allotment, creating their magazine, themed workshops and weekend residentials etc. Lik:T are also looking for volunteers. 49 - 51 Sidney Street, Manchester MANCHESTER SAFEGUARDING Email: likt_info@yahoo.co.uk CHILDREN BOARD Ending Homophobia, Empowering People Website: www.likt.org.uk TM
www.lgf.org.uk
42nd Street 42nd Street is an organization that works with young people under stress, by providing dropin group sessions, 1-2-1 support, and counseling. They have a group specifically for young LGBT people and a helpline on Monday, Thursday, and Friday afternoon’s - 0161 832 0170 / Minicom: 0161 831 7616 2nd Floor, Swan Street Buildings, 2 Swan Street, Manchester M4 5JW Email: theteam@fortysecond street.org.uk Website: www.fortysecondstreet.org.uk
Manchester Multi-Agency anti-bullying policy and practice network
www.operationfundraiser.com
Children’s services
HOPE Theatre Company
CONTACT INFORMATION FOR THE EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS INITIATIVE: Tel: 07866 445985 • email: exceedingexpectations@lgf.org.uk • web: www.exceedingexpectations.org.uk