Social Care Charity and Rugby League join forces to tackle discrimination in schools this Anti Bullying Week

As the UK marks Anti Bullying Week 2022 (14-18 November), Community Integrated Care, the Rugby League World Cup 2021 and the RFL are engaging more than 15,000 primary school children on the importance of inclusion.

Community Integrated Care, the national social care charity that is the Official Social Care Partner of the sport and tournament, has created ‘We’re On The Same Team’ (www.TheSameTeam.co.uk) – a pioneering free primary school education programme. Using the influence of sport and the experiences of players in the Community Integrated Care Learning Disability Super League, it powerfully helps to tackle prejudice before it is formed.

This campaign comes at a vital time. Office of National Statistics data have revealed this month that reported disability hate crimes have increased by a shocking 44% this year.  By encouraging pupils to work together and see the potential in others, On The Same Team supports positive attitudes in young people now and aims to shape change in the generations ahead.

The sport and Community Integrated Care are encouraging many more schools to pledge to participate in On The Same Team this year, as part of their Anti-Bullying Week action plans. With the week urging everybody to challenge bullying when they encounter it, the resource provides vital assistance to schools to win hearts and minds and set a positive culture.

‘We’re On the Same Team’ is fully aligned to Key Stages 1 and 2. It provides teachers with a compelling learning experience, featuring inspirational videos and class challenges, with a full suite of resources that enable easy delivery in classroom or assembly settings. Schools can register for their pack for free atwww.TheSameTeam.co.uk.

All schools that participate in the programme receive certificates for their learners and have the opportunity to win exclusive prizes, from sports equipment, experiences and Rugby League World Cup signed memorabilia.

Lewis Webster, Sports Inclusion Manager at Community Integrated Care says, “Bullying affects millions, every day. It doesn’t have to be this way – we can all make a stand. ‘We’re On The Same Team’ is the perfect way to challenge bullying this week. Our campaign is uniquely impactful, having been co-produced with people who access care and support and developed alongside experienced teachers and headteachers. It is simple to adopt, accessible and full of fun.

“We want as many young learners as possible to benefit from this brilliant campaign. The schools that have taken part already have seen first-hand the impact the campaign is having, both teachers and pupils alike. Bullying has a long-lasting impact, but by getting children to see the potential in others and themselves, we can tackle it together.”