We’ll stop the bullies
Election promise from SNP candidates
The SNP has pledged a root and branch review of Renfrewshire Council’s anti-bullying strategy if they win next month’s local election.
Bullying has shot up the political agenda recently after several harrowing cases were highlighted by the Paisley Daily Express.
Now the SNP has vowed to overhaul the way the issue is dealt with in schools across the region.
John Clark, candidate for Paisley North east and Ralston, said: “Bullying in schools is a serious issue, and has not been properly addressed in Renfrewshire over the decades. Going by the reports and speaking to locals, it is getting worse.
“This shouldn’t be a political issue, and is not a problem which anyone should play politics with. Something has to be done, and done as soon as possible.
“It’s not about Labour or SNP, it is something we need to tackle together.
“An SNP administration will review the council’s approach towards bullying. It will not be easy, but we will do whatever it takes to stamp this out.
“Over the past weeks there has been reports in the Paisley Daily Express of bullying going unreported in schools, including Paisley Grammar, with parents concerned at the lack of action being taken.”
Last week we reported that a nineyear-old boy was attacked by five other pupils at Thorn Primary School in Johnstone.
We also revealed that Paisley Grammar had been rapped by the Scottish Public Services ombudsman after failing to protect a 15-year-old girl from abuse.
Fellow candidate Jennifer AdamMcGregor says any new approach must also include the problem of cyber bullying which is growing in prominence.
She said: “The rise of social media has meant that bullying is no longer just an old fashioned playground issue.
“Kids can be bullied while in, or out of, school via different means – all of which have a damaging effect on those pursued.
“No child should be scared to go to school, or fear what is being written or shared about them on Snapchat or Facebook.
“The council, working with head teachers and other organisations, need to take the lead on this issue and an incoming SNP administration will ensure that happens.“