Online toolkits to help combat bullying

THE Community Brave Foundation has released a series of new, quick-access, online anti-bullying toolkits for use within the nation’s schools and workplaces, in order to mark today’s National Day of Action Against Bullying.

Developed in association with The Cyber Safety Lady, Carmen Rupe Memorial Trust and Organisation Intersex International Australia, the toolkits are targeted towards the LGBTI community and according to Community Brave Foundation founder and chairman Rami Mandow, social media offers an opportunity to provide fast facts on what bullying is and how to deal with it.

“Research tells us that young LGBTIQ people are at higher risk of bullying and that suicide rates are 14 times higher than non-LGBTIQ youth,” he said.

“We also know that when young people are experiencing difficulties they reach out through social media and this is why we need to be in the space.”

Separated into several different sections, the toolkits cover the entire LGBTI community with specific information being made available for the trans* and intersex communities, both of which have seen little in the way of anti-bullying documentation previously. The toolkits also include information for teachers, students and people who are experiencing harassment in the workplace.

“Our toolkits are quick and easy to access, share and ensure that when someone you know is feeling down or being bullied – you can give them the right information, contact and resources that can make all the difference,” Mandow said.

While Community Brave’s primary focus is to assist people who are undergoing bullying by providing easy access to digital resources that counter bullying and reward positive behaviour online, Mandow has stated that the foundation’s long-term goal is to develop a 24/7 digital support platform that provided immediate support to young people in times of need.

The toolkits are currently available via Facebook and Google+.