'Bullying makes you feel cold inside' - Young disabled leaders share their stories of bullying

Six young disabled leaders have shared their stories of bullying. Photo: Amelia-Jayne Frodyma/YouTube

Six young disabled leaders have shared their stories of bullying and developed an anti-bullying programme for others.

Working with non-profit Auckland-based group Yes Disability, the move is believed to be unique as the programme is being developed by young people for other young people.

Workshops are aimed at people aged 12 to 25 and include resources, stories and a short film that aims to inspire.

It's thought up to eight out of 10 disabled people experience bullying and the short film begins darkly, as one of the young leaders remembers the effect of bullying.

"Bullying makes you feel cold inside."

But then the six share their stories of inspiration and how they overcame the dark times.

"As always, we are inspired and directed by our young people and once again we've been blown away by their energy, bravery and ingenuity," says Yes Disability chief executive Sonia Thursby.

"Bullying of people living with a disability was identified as a pressing issue a few years ago and after talking in depth with our young leadership team, they came up with the concept of IceBreaker.

"To be able to use their own experiences as a source of strength for other young people is such a powerful tool and I'm excited for this programme to launch into the community in 2016."

Yes Disability, which supports young people with disabilities in Auckland, is hoping to raise $25,000 to help it spread the anti-bullying campaign.

• Donations can be made at https://www.pledgeme.co.nz/projects/4506