Odd Socks Day 2021: what is it, when is it in the UK, anti-bullying week song - and ‘One Kind Word’ theme

This week (15 - 19 November) marks Anti Bullying Week, an event organised by the Anti-Bullying Alliance to raise awareness of the damage bullying can do, particularly to young children in schools.

This year’s week has the theme “One Kind Word”, and runs from Monday 15 November to Friday 19 November.

Aiming to highlight the week and celebrate what makes us all unique is Odd Socks Day, one of the easiest awareness raising charity days to take part in.

“All you need to do is wear odd socks!” explain the organisers.

Here is everything you need to know about it.

What is Odd Socks Day?

“There is no pressure to wear the latest fashion or for parents to buy expensive costumes,” say the organisers. “All you have to do to take part is wear odd socks to your school or workplace, it couldn’t be simpler!”

Participating schools and workplaces are encouraged to ask participants to make a £1 donation – or any donation you think appropriate – to the Anti-Bullying Alliance, but the organisers say the most important thing is the message of Odd Socks Day.

“Any money raised for us is a bonus!”

When is Odd Socks Day 2020?

Odd Socks day usually takes place on the first day of Anti Bullying Week each year, and this year, it’s being held on Monday 15 November.

But of course, the fun doesn’t have to stop just because you’ve missed the day’s ‘official’ date. Read on for ways to get involved.

What can I do to mark Anti-Bullying Week?

Teachers and school staff looking to get involved with Anti Bullying Week should head to the event’s website, where they can view and download resources for free.

The website offers a social media pack that includes Facebook banners and Twitter cover images, so members of the public can also get involved.

But Odd Socks Day isn't just for schools and children, and anyone can take part at home, in school, in the community, or at work.

The Anti-Bullying Alliance have created a workplace pack which will give you everything you need to take part at work.

What is the Odd Socks Day 2021 song?

Odd Socks Day once again has the support from CBeebies star Andy Day, and his band Andy and the Odd Socks.

The Andy and the Odd Socks team came up with the idea for Odd Socks Day with us in 2017 and have supported it ever since.

This year, Andy and the Odd Socks have written another “toe-tapping masterpiece” song called ‘One Kind Word’, which features children from school from across the country.

All proceeds are being given to the Anti-Bullying Alliance. and you can stream the single on Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon.

How can I donate?

You can donate directly to the Anti-Bullying Alliance through their Virgin Money Giving page.

You can also send cheques, made payable to the ‘Anti-Bullying Alliance’ and posted to Anti-Bullying Alliance, National Children’s Bureau, 23 Mentmore Terrace, Hackney, London, E8 3PN.

Make sure you include your name and your address, as the Alliance likes to acknowledge all funds raised wherever possible.

For more information on Anti Bullying Week, head to the Anti-Bullying Alliance’s website

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