ReachOut supports Safe Schools Coalition to stop bullying and help young people feel safer at school

25 February 2016

‘After working with young people for 18 years, we know that many lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer and intersex (LGBTQI) young people are at greater risk of being marginalised, rejected or bullied while at school,’ ReachOut Australia CEO Jono Nicholas said today.

‘This means that these young people are far more likely to experience poor mental health. A recent ReachOut survey found that 77 per cent of LGBTQI young people who accessed ReachOut.com were found to have severe or extremely severe depression, anxiety and/or stress.

‘ReachOut Australia supports the Safe Schools Coalition and any similar initiative that aims to help LGBTQI young people to feel safe at school, reduce homophobic and transphobic bullying and gives teachers and the school community the resources and support they need to help students.

‘Programs like Safe Schools can help improve the lives of many young people by improving their mental health and wellbeing, school attendance and performance and family and home life.

‘ReachOut supports all schools in continuing to use Safe Schools Coalition while the government undertakes its review, which should help to ensure that Australian teachers and students remain well equipped to support diversity in schools, boosting the safety and wellbeing of all students.’

Related

• ReachOut assisting up to 26k LGBTQI young people with mental health per month, 10 February 2016, ReachOut Australia