As part of Stand Up Awareness Week and in partnership with Facebook, BeLonG To have launched a guide to target cyberbullying entitled ‘End Bullying, Be Kind Online’. Stand Up Awareness Week sees secondary schools promote inclusion for their LGBT+ students, as well as taking a stand against homophobic and transphobic bullying.

‘End Bullying, Be Kind Online’ provides practical advice and tips on handling cyberbullying. The guide includes information on the best language to use, advice on how to support someone dealing with online abuse and practical steps to stay safe on Facebook.

The guide comes in response to a recent Irish survey which revealed the extent of homophobic bullying in Ireland. The research found that 50% of LGBT+ students have faced bullying in Irish schools, while 67% of those surveyed have witnessed homophobic bullying.

Additionally, one in four LGBT+ young people have missed school in order to avoid negative treatment as a result of their identity.

Moninne Griffith, the executive director of BeLonG To spoke about the organisation’s aim:

“Our mission is to create a world where LGBTI+ youth can express who they are, and who they love without experiencing hate and discrimination. We are delighted to partner with Facebook with this initiative to tackle the abuse of young LGBTI+ people online.

“By being kind, empathetic, and accepting online, we have the power to change the conversation, and create a world where all of our young people feel safe, valued and equal in their identities and experiences.”

Amy McArdle, Facebook’s Safety Policy Manager added:

“We take safety on Facebook very seriously and want everyone on our platforms to have a positive experience but we also know that bad things can happen online.

“This guide will help those experiencing bullying or witnessing it online to take positive and practical action to either tackle or diffuse the situation and comfort those who need it.”