Northampton Lib Dems support homophobic bullying campaign

6.54.11pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 7th Jun 2006

"Homophobic bullying is unacceptable" says Andrew Simpson

Northampton Liberal Democrats are supporting a national petition launched today as part of the Lib Dems campaign to tackle homophobic bullying. Commenting, Liberal Democrat Shadow Education Secretary, Sarah Teather MP said: "Our petition is calling for all schools to develop measures to tackle homophobic bullying. Taunts and name calling should be challenged immediately so that it's clear such behaviour won't be tolerated.

"Liberal Democrats are concerned about all aspects of bullying but are focusing the spotlight on homophobic abuse because it's currently harder to monitor and stop.

"Teachers and staff can be victims of this type of harassment in schools as well as pupils. School leaders need to take responsibility for ensuring schools are safe and welcoming environments for everyone - no matter their race, gender or sexuality.

Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Spokesperson for Northampton North, Andrew Simpson added:

"Only 6% of Northamptonshire schools have a homophobic bullying policy which is simply not enough. I will be pressing my colleagues on Northamptonshire County Council to adopt a homophobic bullying policy in schools across the county."

You can sign the petition online at www.libdems.org.uk

Related Link:

Click here to sign the petition.