MORE should be done to tackle anti-LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) bullying in Wales schools, a Gwent AM has said.

Speaking in the Senedd earlier this week South Wales East AM Mohammad Asghar said figures from equal rights charity Stonewall showed more than half of LGBT young people in Wales said they had been physically or verbally abused in schools.

But, the Conservative AM said, only a quarter of these said teachers had intervened.

Saying he found this “very concerning and disturbing”, Mr Asghar said: “Stonewall Cymru is calling for all school staff to be trained in tackling anti-LGBT bullying and for Estyn to play an active role in ensuring that schools create a safe environment for LGBT pupils.”

Addressing education secretary Kirsty Williams, he asked: “What action are you going to take to protect LGBT pupils in our schools in Wales?”

Ms Williams replied: “I want to make it absolutely clear, I do not accept and I take a zero-tolerance approach to any bullying within our education system.

“We cannot expect our children to make the most of their opportunities and to fulfil their potential if they do not feel safe and supported in our schools.”

She added the Welsh Government was currently revamping its anti-bullying policies, including offering more support to teachers.

"One of the other things we also need to do is ensure that our children have access to top-quality sex and relationship education, because educating children is the best way to try and prevent bullying," she said.

Stonewall Cymru offers a range of information and advice on LGBT issues. For more information call 08000 50 20 20 or visit stonewallcymru.org.uk