Doubling of Suicidal Thoughts in Young People Amid Rise in Anti-Bullying Cases

The past two months have seen a drastic increase in young people contacting anti-bullying charity Combat Bullying, with 100 individuals reaching out for help, compared to 50 in the same period last year. This alarming rise comes during Anti-Bullying Week, as the charity prepares to stage a free production of the Ugly Duckling play, featuring 20 children who are members of Combat Bullying. The charity's founder, Natalie Harvey, a Broxtowe borough councillor, attributes the surge in calls to the darker nights and the emotional toll they take on children, much like adults.

Key Takeaways:

• Combat Bullying has seen a significant increase in young people contacting the charity, with 100 individuals reaching out for help in the past two months, compared to 50 in the same period last year.
• The charity has a waiting list of people wanting to join, and founder Natalie Harvey has been helping and supporting those in need.
• National statistics indicate that one in 10 children who are being bullied have suicidal thoughts.
• Being involved in the Ugly Duckling play has helped to boost the confidence of the participating youngsters.
• Combat Bullying is organizing a free production of the Ugly Duckling play, featuring 20 children who are members of the charity, to be performed at the Haven Centre in Stapleford.
• The charity is also hosting a "bake-off" event at the Manor Bar and Restaurant in Toton on Saturday to raise funds and awareness.
• Founder Natalie Harvey has been invited to speak in Parliament and attends monthly meetings in Whitehall to share best practices on bullying.
• Children who have been involved with Combat Bullying, such as Stevie Caulton and Emily Simpson, have spoken out about their experiences with bullying and how the charity has helped them gain confidence.

Statistics:

• 100 young people contacted Combat Bullying in the past two months (compared to 50 in the same period last year).
• 1 in 10 children who are being bullied have suicidal thoughts (according to national statistics).
• 20 children aged 6-14 will be performing in the Ugly Duckling play.
• Up to 120 people were expected at the first performance of the Ugly Duckling play.
• Tickets are still available for shows on Thursday and Friday.
• Combat Bullying is offering a free production of the Ugly Duckling play at the Haven Centre in Stapleford.

Sources:

• Natalie Harvey, founder of Combat Bullying
• The Ugly Duckling play, scheduled to be performed at the Haven Centre in Stapleford
• All Party Parliamentary Group on Bullying
• National statistics on bullying and suicidal thoughts in children
• Combat Bullying's charity "bake-off" event at the Manor Bar and Restaurant in Toton