BULLYING at school has always been a problem but the 24/7 access to social media has supercharged the problem leading to the death by suicide of a 14-year-old Queensland teenager Amy Jayne “Dolly” Everett in January 2018.
But in order that their daughter’s death would not be in vain, Dolly’s parents launched a foundation and an awareness campaign titled Do It For Dolly.
Last Friday, May 10 was Do It For Dolly Day and schools and organisations across the region combined to organise activities that would take the anti-bullying message forward.
Bass Coast Secondary College joined the campaign with several student-led awareness initiatives with the emphasis on friendship and fun but also raising awareness of bullying and the fact that help is at hand.
“We were contacted by Bass Coast Police Youth Resources Officer Megan Krause who encouraged students to get on board with the Do It For Dolly campaign,” said college representative Ross Bramley.
“All week we’ve had a focus on bullying and the fact that the school community takes the issue very seriously. We’ve focused on the message of being kind to combat bullying mindful that there needs to be a community-wide approach to bullying, which is why the whole region has been encouraged to get involved.”
There are telephone and online support services for people affected by mental health issues, with targeted services on particular issues or for particular groups in the community; including Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636, Lifeline 13 11 14, Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800, Headspace 1800 650 890 and Parentsline 13 22 89.
Students impacted by bullying, and those who witness bullying are urged to contact their school authorities which have programs in place.
