Kia ora,

Did you know New Zealand has some of the highest rates of bullying in schools in the world? It’s aworrying statistic.

Bullying can have serious and ongoing impacts on young people’s mental health and wellbeing. Studies show that young people who are bullied are more likely to experience mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety and even suicidal thoughts. Young people who identify as part of the rainbow community experience higher rates of bullying.

[Name of school]has joined the Pink Shirt Day movement to Speak Up, Stand Together and Stop Bullying on Friday 18 May! Pink Shirt Day is a national anti-bullying day, led by the Mental Health Foundation (MHF).

On Friday 18 May we’re going pink to show our commitment to creating a school environment that is safe, welcoming and inclusive ofall students. We’re making the most of Pink Shirt Day by [add details of your Pink Shirt Day activities].

Ending bullying takes more than one day. It takes thecommitment and energy of the whole school community – including you!

What you can do:

  • Show your commitment – add your name or hand print to our Pink Shirt Day pledge [add details here].
  • Take issues of bullying seriously - if a child confides in you that they are beingbullied, take it seriously and let them know thatyou care and that you will help make it stop. Talk to XXX or refer to our school policy XXXfor guidance onthe steps to take.
  • Read trusted books with children – the MHF has reviewed a whole bunch of kids’ books which focus on topics such as anxiety, bullying, feeling different and resiliency. The books have been reviewed by librarians, parents, children, the MHF staff and Constable Bryan and Bobby (who run a regular library group for kids). Check out the books and the reviews, you could introduce some books at home.
  • Celebrate Pink Shirt Day at home or work - order free Pink Shirt Day resources, such as stickers, event packs full of posters and balloons, and Mr Vintage t-shirts for adults and children: For more ideas and inspiration, download one of the Pink Shirt Day toolkits from
  • Find out more about tackling bullying - Bullying-Free NZ Week has developed ‘TacklingBullying’ – a guide for parents and whānau and schools toaddress bullying behaviour together.

We hope that by supporting this anti-bullying campaign, [name of school]will be a safer and more inclusive place for every student.

Ngā mihi nui,

[Your name]