£50,000 to tackle Fylde’s playground bullies

Tom Hutton with St Thomas pupil Ben Cobban at a recent bike coding event

Youngsters from 23 schools will take part in the new Sticks and Stones programme, set to be launched on October 7 by the AFC Fylde Community Foundation.

The £50,000 scheme has been funded by the Arts Council, which is part of the Big Lottery Fund.

Year Six pupils will take part in three half-day programmes which will see them complete a range of interactive tasks.

The impact bullying has on children’s health and wellbeing will also be highlighted, while those taking part will receive a nationally-recognised arts award and a personalised work of art to be displayed inside their schools.

The AFC Fylde Community Foundation was formed in June 2013 as a way for the club to increase levels of sport participation and enhance the club’s links with the community.

Tom Hutton, director of community development, said: “A lot of bullying goes undetected and people don’t know where to turn.

“Many don’t even know how to identify bullying. Year Six to Seven is a very transitional period and children face a lot of challenges. By supporting them and raising awareness about bullying, we can really help them.”

As well as organising events for members, the foundation also aims to encourage more children to get involved in sport. On Wednesday, the foundation revealed more free weekly sports sessions are to be held in Blackpool.