In the realm of education, where the future of our youth is shaped, a silent crisis unfolds. The concept of inclusion, while noble in its intentions, has inadvertently created a power imbalance, leaving victims of bullying vulnerable while their tormentors are coddled. This is a tale of two extremes, where the rights of bullies are protected at all costs, while the victims are left to suffer in silence. The story of Lesley, a mother whose son endured a year of physical assaults and emotional trauma, highlights the stark contrast between the treatment of bullies and victims. The inclusion policy, designed to foster emotional regulation and understanding, has resulted in a lack of immediate discipline, allowing bullies to thrive while victims are left to struggle. The irony is that the very policy meant to promote fairness has become a tool for injustice. The concept of inclusion, embraced by the educational establishment since the turn of the century, has led to a dramatic reduction in permanent exclusions and suspensions. However, this has come at a cost. The number of children suspended from school has plummeted by 75% over the past two decades, while the rights of bullies remain protected. The Respect for All policy, introduced in Scotland in 2010, outlines clear expectations of behavior and consequences. Yet, it is not enough for some parents, who believe a law is needed to ensure every school knows how to handle bullying. The case of Lesley's son, who was kicked, headbutted, and thrown to the ground, would have been handled differently with a legal framework in place. The inclusion policy, while well-intentioned, has created a power imbalance, with bullies' rights protected and victims left to suffer. The story of Ashley, whose son Josh was bullied to the point of becoming a 'shadow of himself', further illustrates the impact of this policy. Josh had to spend playtime and breaks inside the classroom to avoid his bully, highlighting the limitations of the current system. The fact that anti-bullying policies are only guidelines in Scotland is a shocking revelation. The lack of consistency and legal backing leaves schools and families vulnerable, with bullies getting away with their actions. Kirsty's experience with her son, who was bitten and kicked, further emphasizes the need for a national policy. The powers of teachers to sanction children have been stripped away, leaving them unsupported and vulnerable. The educational establishment must recognize the unintended consequences of the inclusion policy. While emotional regulation and understanding are essential, the protection of bullies' rights must not come at the expense of victims' well-being. A balanced approach is needed, one that ensures both bullies and victims are held accountable. The story of these parents is a call to action, a plea for a reevaluation of the inclusion policy and a call for a national bullying law. It is a reminder that in the pursuit of fairness, we must not lose sight of justice. The future of our youth depends on it.
