The Bully Free Zone project was established in 1996 to help young people, their families and schools. Rising demand for its services has led it to develop the new centre, whose staff will give advice to young people, as well as providing activities to boost self-esteem. It is being supported by more than 300 Millennium Volunteers who have helped to raise awareness of bullying.
Funding comes from several streams, including Bolton Children's Fund and Comic Relief.
Nicola Schofield, project manager of Bully Free Zone, said: "We hope this initiative will give the organisation the opportunity to expand its services in the Northwest, benefiting thousands more young people."
This coincides with the launch of the Government's Make a Difference anti-bullying campaign. This includes an anti-bullying charter to help schools tackle the problem (YPN, 10-16 September, p4).
www.bullyfreezone.co.uk.