Anti Bullying week

The Anti-Bullying Alliance (ABA) is the official organizer of Anti-Bullying Week and Odd Socks Day across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. In 2024, Anti-Bullying Week will run from Monday 11th to Friday 15th November, with the theme "Choose Respect." Odd Socks Day will take place on Tuesday 12th November, encouraging both adults and children to wear odd socks to celebrate what makes each of us unique.

Anti-Bullying Week 2024: Choose Respect

This year, schools should encourage children and young people not to resort to bullying, even in disagreements, while reminding adults to set a positive example both online and offline. Imagine a world where respect and kindness thrive—this can be a reality through the choices we make. Join us this Anti-Bullying Week and commit to "Choose Respect."

The Anti-Bullying Alliance (ABA)

Call to Action

Schools can download free teaching materials and themed assemblies, which focus on actions we can all take to Choose Respect and stop bullying.

Anti-Bullying Alliance patron, Andy Day—known from CBBC and CBeebies—and his band Andy and the Odd Socks will lead celebrity support for the campaign. To mark Odd Socks Day on the first day of Anti-Bullying Week, the band will release a video for their song "Choose Respect." The fun and playful nature of Odd Socks Day carries a serious message: we are all unique, and it’s important to be kind and respectful of each other's individuality.

For older children, social media plays a key role in spreading the Anti-Bullying Week message. Schools are encouraged to share their activities using #AntiBullyingWeek and #ChooseRespect across Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

Together, let's stand up, choose respect, and create a kinder, more inclusive world!

• CP06 Anti-bullying Advice

• PR16 Guidance on Creating Bully-proof Premises

• Example Anti-bullying Policy

• DfE: Advice for Parents and Carers on Cyberbullying (2014)

• DfE: Cyberbullying Advice for Headteachers and School Staff (2014)

• DfE: Preventing and Tackling Bullying (2017)

HANDSAM RESOURCES

How to Get Involved

The "Choose Respect" Theme

The theme "Choose Respect" was developed after consultations with teachers and pupils, coordinated by the Anti-Bullying Alliance. Teachers and students sought a theme that would empower individuals to take positive action against the harm caused by bullying.

Building on the success of the 2023 campaign—which saw 80% of schools participating, reaching over 7.5 million children—this year's focus is on empowering young people to actively choose respect.

As always, schools will have access to free teaching resources and themed assemblies, focusing on ways to choose respect and prevent bullying. Additionally, a media and social media campaign will bring Anti-Bullying Week to life at home, work, and school. Stay tuned for more updates!