7 November 2013

Cyber-bullying is not ok

The Foundation for Youth Development (FYD) congratulates Parliament on the Harmful Communications Bill which is taking a positive leap forward in protecting our young people. FYD delivers the proven Kiwi Can programme to almost 15,000 kids in some 60 schools from Northland to Stewart Island.

Graeme Dingle co-founder of FYD said “this is fantastic news that the government has been able to present this Bill to Parliament, whether it be in response to the recent revelations about the despicable actions of the Roast Busters group or not. Through our school based programmes which in part seek to address the issue of bullying, and young people learning to respect themselves and others, we hear of very damaging cyber bullying that continues beyond the school gates. Often this activity can continue undetected for some time, with devastating consequences. Along with the introduction of this Bill, we would encourage a process whereby kids are made aware of their rights in this respect, and in doing so seek to foster a culture of respect rather than disrespect.”

CEO, Marion Short says “FYD’s programmes helps kids to develop real life skills, to be more positive, confident, and resilient. Our Kiwi Can programme directly tackles the negative consequences of bullying and gives kids real strategies they can use. School principals tell us that Kiwi Can really works and nips bullying in the bud. If we want to stem the tide of bullying then we need to start working with kids as early as possible”.

Proposals in the Bill include creating a new civil enforcement regime. This allows people to take serious complaints to the District Court, which will be able to issue remedies such as take-down orders providing a legislative mechanism for people to easily and quickly request the removal of harmful content from websites. The legislation also makes it an offence to send messages and post material online with intent to cause harm and creates a new offence of incitement to commit suicide.

FYD currently helps more than 17,000 young New Zealanders each year through its proven programmes - Kiwi Can, Stars, Project K, Career Navigator and MYND. All FYD programmes build on young people’s talents through physical and mental challenges; developing core life skills and helping them achieve their potential in order to succeed in life.

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