The Bullying Forum to be held in Auckland

7 April

In the lead up to an international anti-bullying day, the Mental Health Foundation and The Back to School Network are hosting a free forum at the Onehunga Community Centre on Tuesday April 13 from 8:30am. The forum will feature experts and practitioners currently working in and around schools to combat the issue of bullying.

Pink Shirt Day was created by two high school students in Nova Scotia, Canada in an attempt to raise awareness and take a stand against bullying. Now into its third year, Pink Shirt Day will be celebrated on April 28 in New Zealand and encourages people to wear pink to show their opposition to a problem that can affect people at home, work, school and online.

"There are clear links between those who experience bullying and depression" says Judi Clements, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation. "Forums such as this recognise the importance of mental health and give people the opportunity to learn about something that is a serious problem in our society."

Speakers at the event include Dr Janis Carroll-Lind from the Children's Commission, Lee Chisholm from NETSAFE, Rainbow Youth's Priscilla Penniket and more. The day will also consist of a panel discussion in which attendees can ask questions, make suggestions or raise concerns. Outcomes from the day will include filmed interviews and presentations available online and a directory of anti-bullying services.

Media Enquiries to:

Martin Street
Senior Communications Officer
Mental Health Foundation
09 300 7028 / 021 790 236
martin   "at" mentalhealth.org.nz