The Bishop of Gloucester, the Rt Revd Rachel Treweek, has worked with The Cotswold School over several years to discuss a range of issues with students as part of the project ‘Liedentity’, which is led by Bishop Rachel. The project helps people discuss the issues around social media and self-esteem.

We were therefore delighted and privileged to be invited by Bishop Rachel to attend the House of Lords for an event to raise awareness of body image anxiety in young people.

Mr Morgan and Mrs Carter, accompanied, Oliver (Y7), Arthur (Y8), Deeo (Y9), Florence (Y10) and Orla (Y12) to Westminster.

Pupils from The Cotswold School and All Saints Academy joined Bishop Rachel in the River Room at the House of Lords, where they heard from Phillipa Dietrichs who delivered the latest data and information about body image and mental health, how social media impacts these and the key issues that people face today. Bishop Rachel also interviewed Baroness Kidron who wants to see the voices of young people coming through the Online Safety Bill, and Dr Luke Evans who advocates honesty online and asked companies to continue to pledge not to digitally alter images.

Students were given the opportunity to speak to Bishop Rachel about their views and experiences of social media and how changes can be made for the better. They spoke about their support for backing stronger online regulations ahead of scrutiny of the Online Safety Bill which was heard in the House of Lords. Bishop Rachel is calling for stronger age verifications online.

Speaking about their day at Westminster Mrs Carter said, “What an experience for our students – they all spoke with such openness and maturity. It’s clear from listening to them that they want us to do more to keep them safe from online harm. We are grateful to Bishop Rachel for the opportunity, enabling students to have their voices heard directly with policy makers and parliament.”