The Education Committee of East Lothian Council approved ‘Respect for All’ in June 2017, a new anti-bullying policy that aims to ensure a consistent approach in tackling bullying behaviour in schools and other childcare settings.

The policy development was supported by ‘respectme’, Scotland’s anti-bullying service, and follows consultation with staff, school councils, parents and children. The policy is designed to ensure a consistent approach across all education settings in East Lothian, in line with the Scottish Government’s ‘National Approach to Anti-Bullying for Scotland’s Children and Young People’.

Fiona Robertson, Head of Education at East Lothian Council, said:

“East Lothian is committed to creating and sustaining a safe, positive, and inclusive environment for everyone in our all of our schools and learning environments. Respect For All follows rigorous consultation with school staff and the wider school community including parent and pupil councils, parents and carers, and of course, our children and young people. It provides clear guidelines on what to do when bullying behaviour is reported, and will ensure that all incidents are consistently dealt with in a constructive and fair manner. All of our colleagues and partner agencies will be informed of this policy, to ensure a consistent approach across East Lothian.”

Shamin Akhtar, Cabinet Spokesperson for Education and Children’s Services, said:

“Every child and young person has the right to grow up free from bullying behaviour and enjoy a learning environment which welcomes diversity and nurtures respect. This policy marks a clear commitment from the council and its partners to protect children and young people from bullying, and respond quickly and effectively to all forms of bullying behaviour. I want to thank everyone who has taken the time to contribute to this policy.Tackling bullying is the responsibility of everyone in the school community, and we must all work to create a culture that encourages respect, values opinions, celebrates differences and promotes positive relationships which makes it difficult for bullying behaviour to flourish. This policy makes clear that such behaviour won’t be tolerated.”