Stonewall launches new guidance to tackle cyberbullying

Stonewall has launched new guidance to deal with online abuse.

Staying Safe Online is launching to coincide with Safer Internet Day (February 11), and will be distributed to secondary schools across Britain.

The guide provides advice for teachers and parents to help lesbian, gay and bisexual youngsters avoid online abuse and cyberbullying.

Stonewall has partnered up with O2 for the new initiative after it emerged that almost a quarter of young people have been subjected to abuse online.

Stonewall’s Acting Chief Executive, Ruth Hunt, said: “It’s disturbing but unsurprising to see these deeply worrying statistics. The internet can be a real lifeline for lesbian, gay and bisexual young people who feel isolated and alone.

“However, sadly, it also leaves them vulnerable to abuse and exploitation. We’re delighted to work with O2 to publish Staying Safe Online which will help teachers and parents provide practical ways to keep gay young people safe online and help them find vital age-appropriate information.”

Stonewall also want to address worrying statistics that reveal that 59% of young gay people have sent sexually explicit images of themselves to others, as opposed to 40% of straight youngsters.

Derek McManus, Chief Operating Officer at Telefónica O2, added: “As a leading communications company in a digital world, we think businesses need to do more to support young people. This means not only helping them make the most of their digital skills, but helping them to be safe online.”

Visit the Stonewall website for more information about the new guidance.

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