A new fund designed to find innovative ways to tackle homophobic bullying in schools is launched on Wednesday by the education secretary, Nicky Morgan. Support from the £2m fund will be offered to community or non-profit organisations that offer creative ideas to fight homophobic, biphobic and transphobic bullying in England’s playgrounds and classrooms.
“Any young person who is different can find themselves subjected to distressing and intimidating homophobic abuse. This funding will help schools take on the challenge of making sure bullies do not stand in the way of our young people achieving their full potential,” Morgan said.
Recent law changes have given schools wider powers to tackle homophobic abuse and bullying, while Ofsted includes attitudes to homosexuality in school inspection guidelines. New research suggests that school-based efforts – including training for teachers and staff, support for victims and special lessons – can be effective.
