Online In Lockdown, the Experiences of Young People During Lockdown

That the Parliament notes the report, Online In Lockdown, by the education charity, Time for Inclusive Education, which found that Scottish young people have experienced a rise in online bullying during the COVID-19 lockdown; is concerned that young people reported a decrease in their emotional wellbeing and that 47% have seen or experienced online bullying during lockdown, with over half reporting that this had been happening more than usual; understands that LGBT+ young people have been disproportionately affected by exposure to online bullying, prejudice and discrimination, with 60% seeing or experiencing online bullying during lockdown, three-quarters reporting that this had been happening more than usual and over half witnessing homophobia online, 48% witnessing transphobia and 36% reporting biphobia; further understands that 59% of girls and young women have seen more prejudice online during lockdown, and they were 13% more likely than boys and young men to have seen hurtful posts related to body image, with almost half witnessing racism during lockdown; commends schools, colleges and universities for their vital role in supporting young people’s mental health and wellbeing, including through support groups; acknowledges that many organisations have shifted their services online to maintain support for young people during lockdown; agrees that the Scottish Government, local authorities, Police Scotland and social media companies should consider the findings of the report carefully when planning the recovery from the COVID-19 crisis, and believes that everyone must play their part in tackling bullying and prejudice.