THE CHILDREN of Mullumbimby wanted to steer clear of blaming somebody for Jai Morcom’s death, local youth workers said.

“I think the crucial thing is to avoid blaming,” Uncle Project chief executive Mark Gasson said. “The community should rally together to support one another.”

The young people of the area may also learn from this experience, Mr Gasson said.

“It’s bound to make kids more aware of the possible outcomes.

“They may never have considered that this was possible.

“It hopefully will promote more understanding between kids.”

Byron Youth Services worker Deborah Pearse said the children she worked with were also keen to keep blame from their grief.

“Most of the girls that I work with said that they’re not blaming anyone,” Ms Pearse said. “There is bullying at the school, but no worse than anywhere else – probably a bit better.

“Bullying and violence are of primary concern and, as a rural area, we’re often neglected when it comes to funding and resources to tackle these serious issues.”

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