 Most children questioned were too afraid to report bullying |
London's black, Asian and refugee children are three times more likely to be attacked in the street than white children, according to mayor Ken Livingstone. A report commissioned by the mayor found of those questioned 10% had been physically attacked, 80% had been racially abused or threatened and more than a third had direct experience of crime in the past year.
Mr Livingstone believes that the culmination of racism, bullying and violence means ethnic minority children need more support.
A report on the problems they face is being discussed at a conference at City Hall on Saturday.
Mr Livingstone said: "For many, crime and the fear of crime have an unnecessary impact on their lives."
Youth Council
"They are three times more likely to be victims of street crime than their white counterparts.
"But they are also disproportionately represented within the criminal justice system."
More than a third of London's children are from ethnic minority or refugee families.
The Young People Big Issues report was compiled after interviewing 520 eight to 14-year-olds, including those in care, excluded from school and young offenders.
Suggestions to better protect children at risk include more visible policing, witness protection, confidential helplines and a new youth council on crime prevention and safety.
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