TEACHERS are being called on to tackle the use of homophobic language among Scottish schoolchildren as part of a campaign by gay rights charity Stonewall.
The campaign is in response to a study showing nearly all lesbian, gay and bisexual youngsters hear phrases such as "that's so gay" or "you're so gay" in school.
The pressure group has been supported by parenting website Mumsnet. Its research shows two-thirds of parents do not know if their children's school has policies to tackle homophobic language. Only 11% of Scottish pupils say teachers challenge homophobic language every time they hear it.
Posters will be sent to schools across Scotland to address the misuse of the word gay. The posters are accompanied by new guidance for both pupils and teachers to enable them to challenge its derogatory use.
Backing the campaign, Pop Idol winner Will Young said: "The word 'gay' is currently used as one of the worst insults by young people of all ages in Britain's schools.
"It's clear from the shocking levels of self-harm and suicide among gay young people that we're failing an entire generation. It's time to take a stand and put a stop to this."
Colin Macfarlane, director of Stonewall Scotland, added: "We know many people who casually use the term 'that's so gay' don't intentionally mean to be offensive. But the reality is that their words cause offence and distress. That's why we're launching this flagship campaign so teachers and parents have the resources to tackle the problem head on.
"We want every young person, teacher and parent in Scotland to challenge this language and change the culture of our schools."
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