United in Odd Socks

In a time where compassion and kindness has been needed more than ever, East Sussex College celebrates Anti-Bullying Week 2020 to promote unity against bullying

Anti-Bullying Week 2020 (16th-20th November) kicked off with Odd Socks Day, which aimed to let us express ourselves and the things that make us unique. Students and staff were encouraged to get involved and didn’t fail to disappoint. Odd socks were showcased across our campuses in Eastbourne, Hastings and Lewes.

“Odd Socks Day was something different for everyone to get involved in,” says Susie Christie, Student Services Team Leader in Lewes. “In the current climate, it was good to have some fun, especially for a Monday. Everyone was proudly displaying their odd socks and it created a great sense of community. Obviously Odd Socks Day has a deeper, underlying message about bullying, and we were pleased to be promoting Anti-Bullying within the college and the wider area”

For the students, bullying is still very much an issue. Harriet studies Early Years & Childcare at ESC Lewes. She says: “To me, bullying is a widespread issue that no matter what we try, it always seems to fight its way back. It isn't something that's "just between the victim and the bully." We all have a responsibility as human beings to look out for each other, and care for one another, regardless of our past or background. Something as simple as smiling at someone in the corridor, or sending a friend a quick message to check in, can make someone's day, and remind them of their worth. It's 2020, stop judging, stop discriminating, stop bullying.”

Chelsea is a second year Law student from the Lewes campus. She adds, “Anti-Bullying Week has a very positive impact. Not only does it teach people to look out for those being bullied, it teaches children about what’s right and wrong, hopefully reducing bullying behaviour at an early start. Another positive impact is that it gives those affected by bullying a voice, so they can seek help and speak up. Nobody should ever be made to feel intimidated in any environment, especially not an educational setting. Nor should they feel uncomfortable in their own skin. This is why Anti-Bullying Week is crucial. We are very lucky in that our college environment is very welcoming and positive. We all actively try and boost each other’s confidence. Rather than putting people down we try to build people up. The values we hold at our college are about respecting one another, being kind and looking out for each other. I feel very strongly that it’s unlikely there would be problems of bullying within the college but if this was to be the case then I believe strongly that they would be dealt with effectively and compassionately.”

“This year’s theme of United Against Bullying is not just about a week of raising awareness,” says Kate Edwars, Learner Journey Manager at ESC. “We strive to be inclusive as a college, which is actually how a lot of students would describe their time with us, and is part of our edYOUcation ethos. We want students to be comfortable to express their individuality. In doing so, we don't tolerate bullying in any form. Covid-19 gave us a chance to have more space to think about ourselves and other people. We’re all going through this surreal time together, so I think it’s created a heightened sense of compassion for others. We hope to see this continue as the new year unfolds”

And, if you need further reason to reach for a pair of odd socks other than because the matching pair mysteriously disappeared in the washing machine (surely it’s not just us that happens to?) then how about quirky and colourful socks leading to greater success? How can socks make a difference? Perhaps more than you would first think...

Socks may be an essential item of clothing, but when we choose beyond basic black or white, we can be seen to be ‘breaking’ social ‘norms’, which can exude a certain confidence as a result. This, in turn, can lead to greater success (U.S psychology studies on the matter prove exactly this).

So, whether you wear your pair of old faithfuls, plain or otherwise, remember to wear them because you want to.

Anti-Bullying Week is organised by the Anti-Bullying Alliance. Last year’s event reached over 7 million young people, with 2020’s event set to exceed this number.