#iwill – Anti-Bullying Campaign
835. Ashley Carter
Ashley Carter, aged 16, from Taunton, has created an anti-bullying campaign based on his difficult personal circumstances of living with Treacher Collins syndrome.
In support of anti-bullying organisation ‘Fixers’, Ashley created a film that was broadcast on ITV News West and ITV West Country, reaching thousands of viewers and letting other victims of bullying know they are not alone. Ashley’s film raised awareness of Treacher Collins syndrome, a relatively unknown condition in which he was born without ears and cheekbones, and with a receding jaw, and has required 30 operations. He has been proactive in sharing his film and campaign on social media, and encouraging his peers to start their own social action projects. Ashley is an ambassador for the #iwill campaign.
In a personal letter to Ashley, Prime Minister Theresa May said:
“Drawing on your own very difficult personal challenges, you have created an anti-bullying campaign that has engaged with thousands of people and you should feel very proud of featuring on a television broadcast that has reached out to so many. By raising awareness of Treacher Collins syndrome, you are sharing a very positive message with young people from across the UK and I wish you every success in your role as an #iwill ambassador.”
Ashley said:
“I feel very proud and privileged to have won this award. It means a lot to me and fingers crossed it will lead to more opportunities in the future to of social action, promote my Anti-Bullying Campaign further, and get the word out that bullying is not acceptable in any way or form.”