Video: X Factor star Marcus Collins backs ITV and Stonewall’s campaign against homophobic bullying
ITV have partnered with Stonewall to sponsor three London schools and raise awareness around homophobic bullying.
ITV Pride, the company’s internal network for LGBT employees, will invite students at the schools to create their own anti-bullying campaigns.
The winning group of students will enjoy an exclusive studio tour at ITV’s London Studios.
To launch the campaign, ITV Pride and ITV Creative have produced a short film involving Emmerdale’s Alicya Eyo, X Factor finalist Marcus Collins, and TOWIE’s Bobby Norris.
Chair of ITV Pride, Stephen Barber, said: “Making a difference in the community is something ITV Pride are passionate about. I’m thrilled we’ve been able to find a creative way to do just that. It’s crucial that students who are being bullied know that they shouldn’t have to endure it, and that it does get better.”
Stonewall’s Head of Education, Luke Tryl, added: “This is just the latest example of ITV’s fantastic commitment to supporting lesbian, gay and bisexual staff as well as to tackling homophobia in Britain. This film will send a powerful message that will inspire young people to be themselves.”
Research by Stonewall shows three quarters of gay pupils experience verbal abuse and almost three in ten are physically bullied.
