YOUNGSTERS are helping to stop bullying with the Taunton Children’s Anti-Bullying Charter.

Taunton Learning Partnership (TLP), which includes children from schools and colleges in the town, launched the charter as part of National Anti-Bullying Week last week.

The charter was created by children from each school who took part in a joint workshop.

Helen Millard, behaviour coordinator for the TLP, said: “We believe this may be the first time there has been a coordinated whole town response to raising awareness about bullying where the children speak with one voice.

“We decided as a local partnership of schools to do something about bullying that brought all the schools together and gave the children a voice in how to support issues around bullying in schools.

“This charter complements the excellent work already being done in schools by allowing the children and young people of the town to speak with one voice.”

The charter includes: n What parents and friends should do.

n What steps should schools take to stop bullying.

n What should happen to people who bully.

n Where victims of bullying can get help from people they trust.

All TLP schools will have a copy of the charter and a commemorative wristband, inscribed Be Strong, Speak Out.

The Childline freephone number is also on the band.

Mrs Millard added: “The aim is to provide a little visible, tangible support for children and adults who may be being bullied, while bringing the work of the TLP into the wider community.”