Teenagers have started a support group for LGBT teenagers in Waltham Forest to stamp out homophobic bullying.

The Rainbow Club has been founded by a group of pupils at Buxton School in Leytonstone who want to make sure their peers have somewhere to turn for help.

"It is important that students stand up and make a difference,” Co-founder and deputy head girl Priscilla Obrenyah said.

"There is still a problem with bullying in schools but rather than ignore it you have to stand up to it. 

The 15-year-old continued: "The Rainbow Club is not just for LGBT pupils, it is for parents and friends, it is for anyone who is being bullied."

Weekly meetings are held after school for pupils and their families to get advice and the group hopes to launch a helpline and email address in September.

Other founders of the club include Aaliyah Bailey, 14, from Clapton, Hira Asim-Amin, 15, from Leytonstone, Raya Palazova, 12, from Leytonstone and Jaden Razar, 15, from Tower Hamlets. 

Hira added: "There are pupils from all different religions and backgrounds and we have been taught to be respectful of them all. 

"It is good to come to a school like this and we should set the example to other kids in Waltham Forest."

Communities leader at Buxton School, which is a Stonewall School Champion, Carol Moloney said: "Here at Buxton School there is zero tolerance of discrimination at all levels. 

"Students have shaped our Anti-Bullying Policy and our student voice forum, Buxton Voices, believe this needs to be further imbedded throughout our community by standing up to homophobic bullying and teasing language. 

"The Rainbow Club will support students, staff and parents by offering a platform for support, discussion and diversity regarding LGBT issues. 

"Fundamentally, it will be run by students who believe strongly that people should be able to be who they are without prejudice.

"It will provide a safe environment within which identity is respected and difference celebrated.”