Why people are wearing odd socks like these children at St Marie’s Primary School in Kirkcaldy

Have you seen anyone with mismatching feet today, like these children at St Marie’s Primary School?

If so, they’re probably marking Odd Socks Day, an annual event which makes a stand against bullying.

Pupils at the Kirkcaldy school – and schools across the UK – have been encouraged to mix up their socks as a symbol of solidarity against bullying.

And it’s not just schools getting in on the act – workplaces have also invited staff to take part.

Odd Socks Day on Monday, November 14, marks the start of Anti-Bullying Week.

What is Odd Socks Day?

Odd Socks Day is promoted by the Anti-Bullying Alliance, supported by CBeebies and CBBC presenter Andy Day and his band, Andy and the Odd Socks.

The event is designed to be fun and allow people to express their individuality – celebrating the fact that everyone is unique.

Last year over 5 million children, thousands of parents and hundreds of workplaces got involved, with celebrity backing from the likes of Ant and Dec, Sir Mo Farah and Brian May.

What is happening during Anti-Bullying Week?

Scotland’s Anti-Bullying Week campaign is being led by anti-bullying service Respectme.

This year the theme is Listen Up and is calling on adults – parents, teachers and professionals – to respect the rights of children and young people.

It is asking schools, youth clubs and sports clubs to pledge support for its five-step action plan and to support its #I’mListening22 social media campaign.

The steps are:

1. Register for Respectme’s Anti-Bullying Learning e-learning modules
2. Refresh, review and update anti-bullying policies
3. Create a pupil forum or anti-bullying committee
4. Create simple, safe pathways for reporting bullying
5. Involve children and young people in Anti-Bullying Week.