Commission to be set up to study bullying

A COMMISSION  to look into the issue of bullying is being established by Cheshire’s police and crime commissioner David Keane.
The Warrington-based commissioner wants to bring together a team of community representatives to look into the issue which he describes as “an epidemic among all generations in our society”.
Bullying on and off line will be studied by the commission which will review existing legislation and research, guidelines around bullying, best practice in tackling the issue, and real-life case studies to establish what more can be done to protect victims.
As part of this review, the commission will open a call-for-evidence where individuals can anonymously tell their story and experiences of being bullied.
Mr Keane said: “We are seeing an increase in bullying not just in our schools but also in the work place. Research now reveals that one in six children have been bullied at school in the last 12 months while a third of adults have been subject to workplace bullying at some time in their careers.
“We’re also seeing the nature and intensity of bullying changing. Gone are the days when you could go home from school or work to a safe place away from bullies. Internet technology now means bullies can operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week bringing a constant source of distress and worry for victims.”
Through the anti-bullying commission, a set of recommendations will be developed for police and other criminal justice organisations, education establishments and elected representatives to consider how they can provide more protection for victims of bullying.
“This issue is becoming epidemic among all generations in our society. There has been a number of cases where bullying has resulted in tragic events such as suicide and self-harm. This should not be happening; more needs to be done to protect both children and adults from bullying.
“All law enforcement agencies, education establishments and employers have a role to play in providing better protection for their residents, pupils or staff members. I hope that the anti-bullying commission can influence the actions of these agencies”, added Mr Keane
The commissioner is now looking for an independent chairman to lead the commission and is advertising for the role on his website. He is seeking someone who is passionate about safeguarding children and adults, and has the relevant leadership skills to drive forward the commission.
More information about the role can be found on the commissioner’s website: https://www.cheshire-pcc.gov.uk/news/news/vacancy-chair-of-anti-bullying-commission/. The closing date for applications is 11:59pm on Sunday, July 7.