IT is shocking to think that the statistics on the level of discrimination suffered by young people in Darlington could actually be an underestimation of the problem.

As reported on page seven of today’s edition, new figures show more than 70 per cent of LGBT+ youngsters in the town have been bullied or rejected because of their sexuality.

A group working in the LGBT+ community believes the reality will be closer to 100 per cent as every single member of its youth group has faced discrimination in some form.

What a depressing situation. And Darlington actually fares better than some towns in terms of support available, which makes it even worse to think that youngsters going through a particularly difficult stage in their lives are having to put up with such ignorant behaviour.

Well done to Darlington Borough Council for being proactive in firstly investigating the scale of the problem, and secondly, drawing up a strategy to prevent bullying and promote inclusion.

Campaigns such as this can do a lot to encourage acceptance, whether people’s differences relate to their sexuality, gender identity, race, religion, hair colour or choice of football team.

But it is also up to each and every one of us to call out discriminatory behaviour when we see it, and challenge outdated attitudes.

The North-East is a famously open, welcoming part of the world. This welcome must extend to all sections of the community so people can live their lives in peace, free from the fear of abuse or prejudice.