MP launches 'call for evidence' for mental health services review group

South Lakes MP Tim Farron is marking Anti-Bullying Week by 'calling for evidence' for his new mental health review group.

The mental health review is looking at a wide range of issues including bullying in school and sports clubs. Tim is asking that young people, professionals and parents get in touch with their evidence for the review.

The review group had its first meeting on 11November and plan to produce their final report in the Spring. The group is urging the public and frontline professionals to share their stories and evidence and have asked people to email at marriottglenys@gmail.com or tim@timfarron.co.uk; or call 01539 723403.

The annual Anti-Bullying Week calls on children and young people to take the lead on creating a future without bullying - using new technologies to promote positive communication rather than being held back by cyber-bullying, using the hashtag #ABW2013.

Bullying in any form is wrong and can have devastating effects on people's lives, this includes cyber-bulling. The anti-bulling alliance poll, in partnership with McAfee, showed that half (45%) of parents are concerned about their child being bullied online. Yet over half (53%) of children often go online without any parental supervision, whilst a quarter (22%) of children have witnessed the cyber-bullying of a classmate or friend.

Tim said: "I hope this Anti-Bullying Week we can increase understanding and raise awareness of the important issue of tackling bullying. As part of our review we want to hear from young people, professionals and parents about what we could do improve mental health services for young people in our area."