West Ham United continue to work hard in support of local autism charity Anna Kennedy Online (AKO), as they gear up for Anti-Bullying Week 2014.
A recent survey conducted by AKO, which included over 900 parents of children with autism throughout the UK, has revealed that over 60 per cent of children affected by autism have experienced bullying in mainstream schools.
Additionally, 73 per cent of families stated that the incident had been either ignored or was poorly handled. These results also reveal that a staggering 93 per cent of parents believe that their child's development and education have been directly affected by bullying.
Anti-Bullying week runs from 17-21 November, with AKO Founder Anna Kennedy OBE once again behind this national campaign with her popular and poignant 'Give Us a Break'
West Ham's championing of the cause stems from Joint-Chairman David Sullivan's promotion pledge three years ago, with the donation of a five figure sum to the autism charity. With the continued support of the Hammers, Anna and her senior charity training officer Austin Hughes are to focus their on school safety and protecting those who suffer from bullying.
Joe Lyons, Head of Community, West Ham United Community Sports Trust, applauds the unrelenting work of AKO, having worked alongside them to create a campaign in the Club's local community.
"We're exceptionally proud of all the work that AKO has already carried out in the local community, working cloesly with families affected by autism in Barking and Dagenham, Harlow, Chigwell and Newham," he explained. "And we are therefore delighted to have established a joint programme, one that will enable AKO to support even more families on our own doorstep.
"We hope and expect that by highlighting the work of Anna Kennedy Online that more can be done to raise awareness of the problem and to support families in difficulty to lead normal lives."
AKO are calling for your pledge to support this essential campaign and help tackle bullying in schools. Please visit http://annakennedyonline.com for further information.