Activist calls for anti-bullying hotline

RADHICA DE SILVA

Senior Multimedia Reporter

radhica.sookraj@guardian.co.tt

A call has been made for an anti-bullying WhatsApp hotline, where children can report bullying incidents and other issues affecting their mental well-being.

The call was made by Caribbean Colour Splash project manager Albert Marshall at the Ninth Bi-Annual Secondary Schools Anti-Bullying Conference, Law and Bullying at SAPA, San Fernando, yesterday.

“If there is a WhatsApp number where students can message directly about the issues they are having, we’ll be able to educate them. Through this, we can share information about school tours and other activities that raise awareness about bullying,” he said.

Commenting on the death of student Jayden Lalchan, who took his own life after being subjected to bullying, Marshall said, “Many don’t know that bullying is a punishable offence. Now that they’re aware, we expect changes in behaviour,”

He said students should be aware that bullying can go on their record and carry legal consequences. He also underscored the need for consistent education on bullying, particularly in schools.

“Programmes like these, taken to different schools, work in tandem with work done by the Ministry’s Student Support Services. We can have specific meetings with various forms to keep the momentum going and eradicate bullying,” he said.

Marshall urged parents to actively engage in their children’s lives and be aware of the signs of bullying.

He also reminded students of the support systems in place through the Ministry of Education.

“Students must know they don’t have to suffer in silence. Reach out to teachers, guidance officers, or principals. If that doesn’t help, go to the school supervisors or the Student Support Services,” he said.

Marshall also called for support for bullies, noting that “nine out of ten times, bullying is learned behaviour that traces back to the home. We believe in transforming teenagers into better adults, but they need help to change.”

He added, “Bullying is a problem in T&T, not only in schools but in the workplace as well. We need to address it everywhere.”

Marshall said he is determined to continue the fight and is willing to partner with corporate entities on anti-bullying initiatives.

Also speaking at the event was Sharla Dass-Hassanali from the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services and Cpl Fraser of the T&T Police Service (TTPS).

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