The Northern Ireland Anti-Bullying Forum, in association with the Northern Ireland Assembly, is delighted to open applications for the first ever

Northern Ireland Anti-Bullying Young People’s Forum
This event will be held as part of our Anti-Bullying Week 2019 activities, on 7 February in the Northern Ireland Assembly at Parliament Buildings, Stormont. The event was regretfully postponed due to pre-election restrictions.

What is it?
The Anti-Bullying Young People’s Forum will be made up of 100 young people aged 15-19, in Years 12-14, from schools across Northern Ireland. These young people will come together for one day to consider a range of issues related to bullying, all under the theme of Anti-Bullying Week 2019 – Change Starts With Us.

Supported by MLAs, participants will work in Committees, hearing from experts on key bullying issues about work being undertaken to address these concerns. During a plenary session with MLAs, the young people will have the opportunity to discuss these issues and make calls for further action to tackle bullying.

The Speaker of the Northern Ireland Assembly has granted the debate the privilege of being held in the Assembly Chamber, and will preside over the session.This is an excellent opportunity for anyone interested in debating, politics or social studies to experience the workings of the Northern Ireland Assembly. It also provides a platform for young people to have their voice heard on this important issue, working with us to explore how we can more effectively promote an anti-bullying culture in our schools and communities.

Who can apply?
All young people wishing to apply must be nominated by their school or education provider. Post-primary schools, special schools and EOTAS centres can nominate up to five pupils to take part in the event. Pupils must be in Years 12-14 (aged 15-19).

How can I apply?
Registration is now closed.

Will everyone get to take part?
Due to the capacity of the Assembly Chamber, we are limited to 100 participants. We can guarantee a minimum of two places per Area Learning Community, with remaining places allocated at random. While a teacher or another member of staff is welcome to accompany any young people attending, please note that access to the Chamber is strictly limited to participants, however some seating for accompanying staff will be available in the Public Gallery.

How do I get there? Are expenses covered?
Registration on the day is from 9.30am, with the event starting at 10am sharp. The event will end by 3.30pm. The young people are responsible for making their own way to and from the event; NIABF is unable to organise or cover the cost of this. However, refreshments, including lunch, will be provided for all participants.

Photos from the day

Check out the photographs from 7 February 2020!