Stand Up To Bullying

In late June 2016, a new survey revealed the shocking scale of bullying in Great Britain. 81% of people questioned by YouGov report that bullying is commonplace in schools, 56% say it is commonplace at work and 64% believe it is widespread throughout society.

“I was badly bullied at school both verbally and cyberbullying and don’t want anyone else to go through the same experience so I took action.”

(Jack, Anti-Bullying Ambassador, The Diana Award)

Commissioned by The Diana Award, the survey results backed the charity’s call for the first ever national Stand Up To Bullying Day on Tuesday 5 July 2016. Everyone across Great Britain was encouraged to stand up for one minute or to post an image or video of themselves taking a stand or raising a hand as a sign of unity against bullying using the hashtag #StandUpToBullying. HRH Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, explains why he is supporting Stand Up To Bullying in this video.

A number of high-profile celebrities are backing this important initiative and the Vodafone Foundation is offering its support as part of the company’s ongoing work to help families build digital resilience and confidence. Vodafone also released new #StandUpToBullying emojis on its #BeStrong emoji keyboard app and the #StandUpToBullying emoji featured as a Snapchat geofilter on 5 July.

As Tessy Ojo, CEO of The Diana Award, said, “We’re delighted to have the support of Vodafone and a host of celebrities – we have a real opportunity to shift attitudes and behaviour. This campaign sends a clear and unified message that bullying is not acceptable.”

“I am so proud that Vodafone is supporting the Stand Up campaign,” added Helen Lamprell, Corporate & External Affairs Director at Vodafone UK. “Vodafone has a strong heritage in helping families and carers navigate through the social and digital worlds in a safe way via global anti-cyberbullying programmes. This campaign further encourages and empowers people to build resilience and lead a happy digital life. With the support of the Vodafone Foundation, we look forward to backing the Stand Up campaign through our #BeStrong programme, which helps people convey their support for others.”

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