A CAMPAIGN has been launched to stop aggressive spiteful language against people with learning disabilities.

Bosses at Enable Scotland say 90 per cent of the charity's members have been victims of hateful language.

Jan Savage, the charity's assistant director, says bus stops and public transport have become bullying hotspots, with bystanders doing nothing to help.

The charity, which helps children and adults who have learning disabilities, has launched the #bethechange campaign in an attempt to stamp out hurtful language.

Among the words highlighted by the charity are: "mongo, spaz, retard".

Members gathered at the railway arches near Bridge Street, Glasgow, where they painted over the word retard which had been written on the wall and created a 'bethechange' mural in its place.

Graffiti-style posters have been placed around the city as part of the campaign, featuring some of the most offensive slogans members have said they want to stop.

The campaign, funded by the Scottish Government, is part of Anti Bullying Week, which runs this week.

Ms Savage said: "We make no apologies for glaringly highlighting the spiky, hateful words that are shouted daily at people who have learning disabilities.

"#bethechange is one of the most controversial and culture-challenging campaigns Scotland has seen in recent years.

"Members of Enable, who were highly influential in shaping the campaign over the past two years, insist the use of abusive language frequently thrust at them is blotted out once and for all.

"During consultation, our members documented instances of bullying in and around the home, in the community, on public transport and online, and research found people who have learning disabilities do not always realise they are being bullied."

A report by the national anti-bullying group Respectme showed in the last year 30% of children have experienced bullying in Scotland.

Of this, 41% have been bullied online and in person, with less than half telling their parents about their problems.

hannah.rodger@ eveningtimes.co.uk