SCHOOLS in west and north Wiltshire are being urged to adopt an anti-bullying charter to combat the growing problem head-on.

The charter, drawn-up by the Secondary Heads Association, the National Union of Headteachers and the Anti-Bullying Alliance, recommends key actions for schools to take in combating the bullies.

Education minister Ivan Lewis unveiled the charter at a conference in Bristol, aimed at promoting the Government's Make the Difference campaign in the south west.

Calling for parents, students, charities and schools to pool together and tackle the issue, Mr Lewis said bullying too often led to tragedy.

"Bullying is not part of growing up. Bullying is not character building. Bullying is physical or emotional assault, and can lead to the most tragic consequences," he said.

"No-one can tackle bullying on their own, and no one will stop bullying overnight. But together, in a true partnership of schools, professional associations, voluntary organisations, parents and young people, we can make a difference."

As part of the campaign, schools in west and north Wiltshire are being urged to devote lesson time to discussing bullying and encourage students to design anti-bullying posters for a national competition.