Powerful advert shows teenagers read out messages sent to bullied children

Video: A new PSA video sees teenagers read out heartfelt messages to bullied people - with a devastating conclusion

(Champions Against Bullying)

A new public service announcement (PSA) video shows the consequences of school bullying in a raw and powerful way, calling on people to "Be Nice. Now".

The video, produced by advertising agency Deutsch NY for Champions Against Bullying, shows several teenagers reading out messages posted on other people's social media profiles - people who were actually bullied.

"You are beautiful and unique in every way", reads one, while another says, "Happy 15^th to my beautiful best friend. I love you with all of my heart".

One boy reads, "I want to thank you for all the times you were there for me, and for being the greatest friend anyone could ever ask for".

The video then cuts to text that explains these heartfelt messages were sent to people, "After they committed suicide from being bullied."

The next message is read out: "Everyone misses you, I just wish you were here to see it. I love you".

The video ends with "Be nice. Now," a message from Champions Against Bullying.

A recent national survey by Bullying UK found that the problem was still impacting the wellbeing of pupils across the country and that while there had been a focus in recent times on "cyber-bullying", direct, physical bullying was still the major issues.

Jeremy Todd, Bullying UK Chief Executive, told The Independent: "This video highlights the importance of tackling bullying as soon as it rears its ugly head. Bullies rely on the fact that their targets are often reluctant to speak out. Bullying can have real consequences and can destroy lives and lead some to contemplate suicide."

Last year, a study by the anti-bullying pressure group, Ditch The Label, showed that one in 10 teenagers bullied at school had attempted to commit suicide, and a further 30 per cent went on to self-harm. Researchers canvassed 3,600 young people.