Teachers Union Funds New Hotline For NYC Students Being Bullied
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) - With bullying a growing concern for young people the United Federation of Teachers has set up a hotline where students can get help inside and outside the classroom.
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The number is 212-709-3222. It is staffed by professionals from 2:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Monday to Friday.
"Giving the child supportive counseling, talking to them about ways to cope, developing a coping strategy, you know, making a plan of who they can reach out to, primarily like we are always going to encourage them to speak to a trusted adult," Gloria Jetter of LifeNet told WCBS 880 reporter Marla Diamond.
The $50,000 startup cost is being covered entirely the UFT.
"Every single child has a right to go to school and not feel intimidated or harassed," UFT president Michael Mulgrew said. "We're coming together to say we are always working for the children of New York."
Students should feel safe calling the number because confidentiality laws prevent the information from being shared with the schools.
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The hotline is part of an anti-bullying campaign called "BRAVE," which stands for "Building respect, acceptance and voice through education."
Were you bullied as a student? We'd like to hear what you have to say in our comments section below.
