We worked together as a group to form an idea round bullying, based on stuff that is going on in the press. We used words and headings that relate to bullying and the effect it can have on us as young people.

The idea of a hand reaching out to get help came up a lot in workshops in Bromley and was shown in the pictures drawn at the Schools. The hand was also shown to symbolise self harm. A lot of discussion took place in the panels around the issue of self harm amongst girls and how bullying by other girls and constantly putting someone down and verbally abusing them can cause low self esteem, which then contributes to self harm.

This was also explored in the drama scenes, as well as scenes that included verbal and physical bullying not just in School, but on the way home, in the park, bus stop and at home. A number of groups wrote lyrics and songs to express their feelings of bullying and their own experiences.

The information produced will be going out to Schools, Pupil Referral Units, Youth Centres, Connexions, Youth Service, Bromley Council, Libraries, Shopping Centres, Leisure Centres, Police and Hospitals. These areas are places where anyone can experience bullying.

Beatbullying will be working in the Borough on an on-going basis, providing workshops and assemblies around getting help; setting up Beatbullying clubs at School; talking to teachers and parents and helping to change things around bullying at your School or youth club.

If you want Beatbullying to come and work at your School, PRU or youth group - or if you simply want more information about BB, please call: Laura Smarton 020 8738 1016.