The campaign will use posters of Irish celebrities depicted with cuts and bruises or crying to emphasise the lasting effect that physical and mental bullying can have on victims’ lives.
It is being organised by the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children and is scheduled to last for four weeks.
“I know at first hand how the impact of being bullied as a teenager can quite literally last a lifetime,” said Westlife member Mark Feehily, who came up with the idea for the campaign.
Yesterday the Sligo man expressed hope that by involving other celebrities in an awareness campaign, people would “think twice about bullying” and that they would be more willing to stand up to others who bully. “Everyone involved believes strongly that the message that emanates from each shot is a simple one. Bullying and abuse whether verbal, physical or emotional is unacceptable in today’s society.”
Well-known figures who will act as ambassadors for the campaign as well as feature on the posters are actor Saoirse Ronan, performers John and Edward Grimes (Jedward), MTV presenter Laura Whitmore and music manager Louis Walsh.
“We are very grateful to Mark Feehily and our ambassadors for their support in raising awareness of this important issue,” chief executive of the society, Ashley Balbirnie, said yesterday. “Through our Childline service we hear first hand the stories of abuse and isolation that so many are experiencing. Through this campaign we hope that many of these can find the courage to tell someone,” she said.
Childline is available 24 hours a day on 1800-666666 or online at Childline.ie.
No comments:
Post a Comment