CYBER bullying and internet safety are set to be tackled with a new campaign launched by West Mercia Police.

Launching today (October 16) the initiative focuses on providing information to young people as well as their families and education providers who are worried about online bullying.

It also aims to make bullies aware that their actions can have serious consequences.

The campaign is supported by six national partners – the NSPCC, MumsNet, Bullying UK, Kooth, Kidscape and Internet Matters – along with local authorities and schools.

Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion has welcomed West Mercia Police’s latest campaign.

He said: “It’s important that West Mercia Police delivers an agile, dynamic approach to tackling cybercrime, keeping pace with new emerging threats.

“This latest campaign is an excellent example of this, using social media and more traditional educational tools to engage with those who are most vulnerable.

“I will continue to ensure victims of cyberbullying get the help that they need, whilst supporting this important preventative work, which contributes to keeping our communities safe.”

A number of resources have been produced including a new interview with Lucy Alexander, mother of Felix Alexander who tragically took his own life in 2016 after being bullied online.

Felix took his life, aged just 17, when he placed himself in front of a train at Abbotswood Junction, in Norton, just outside Worcester, in April 2016.

People who believe they are the victim of a cyberbullying offence are told to keep a record of the content, by taking a screenshot, for example.

Parents or guardians, worried their loved one could be a victim of cyber bullying, should look out for signs, including low self-esteem, spending a lot of time alone, reluctance to let parents or other family members near their mobiles and laptop, and finding excuses to stay away from school or work.

People are reminded to think before they post, keep personal information private and use privacy settings effectively.

Report cyberbullying to the social media site so they can take action against users abusing the terms of service.

For more information about the campaign visit: westmercia.police.uk/becybersmart The PCC will be supporting the campaign on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter: @WestMerciaPCC #BeCyberSmart.