Zoo hosts anti-bullying event

The Young Anti-Bullying Alliance (Young ABA) is hosting a special event at London Zoo today to mark Blue Friday, the day when all children and young people are encouraged to dress in blue for the day in support of the anti-bullying message.

Young ABA (YABA) is a recently established advisory board of nine Diana Anti-Bullying Award holders – one from each government region.

This week is Anti-Bullying Week 2007, run by the Anti-Bullying Alliance (ABA), who this year are focusing on 'bullying in the community.'

Gay equality organisation Stonewall and LGBT education group Schools Out are members of the ABA, which is funded by the Department for Children, Schools and Families.

Research published by Stonewall earlier this year revealed that nearly two thirds of LGB students reported instances of homopbobic harassment.

That figure jumps to 75% of young gay people attending faith schools.

The survey of more than 1,100 young people found that only 23% of all UK schools explicitly condemn homophobic bullying.

92% of gay, lesbian and bisexual pupils have experienced verbal abuse, 41% physical bullying and 17% have been subject to death threats.

The Diana Anti-Bullying Award is a living legacy to the late Princess which is presented to all young people, 18yrs and under, who have tackled bullying in their schools or communities. The Diana Anti-Bullying Award is under the umbrella of the main Diana Award which is presented to young people who inspire the lives of others.