Bullying
Bullying can be described as a repeated behaviour that intends to hurt another person either emotionally or physically. This can include physical assault, name calling, teasing, making threats and cyberbullying (online or via phone).
For more information about bullying please visit the Anti-bullying Alliance website.
Top Tips
- We are all different in some way and that’s what makes us amazing
- It is not your fault that you are being bullied
- The important thing is that you tell someone about it. This should be someone you trust, maybe your parent, a teacher a friend. If you don’t feel that you are ready to do that you can talk to Childline: call 0800 11 11 or visit childline.org.uk
- Be kind to yourself and do things that help you to feel good or relax
- Spend time with people who help you to feel good about yourself
- Shyness around other children
- Trouble expressing their thoughts
- Being anxious, fearful, becoming withdrawn or losing confidence
- Not wanting to go to school
- Suddenly not doing as well at school
- Damaged clothing, possessions or unexplained bruises
- Changes in eating or sleeping habits
- Encourage them to tell you what's happened and listen carefully without jumping to conclusions
- Try to stay calm and not react strongly when they tell you what’s wrong, as this could stop them from sharing anything else in the future
- Explain why and how bullying sometimes happens and reassure them that it’s not their fault
- Reassure your child that you’ll work together to find the best solution and then practise it through roleplaying or writing it down
- Praise your child for not only talking to you, but for coming up with a way to resolve the situation
- At no point should you encourage your child to fight back, as often this can make matters worse
- You should always inform the school of the situation, if you feel it’s appropriate
The CLD Trust offering counselling and other talking therapies to children (aged 9 and above), young people and some adults.
CBBC Lifebabble: All you need to know about tackling bullying.
Childline offer information, advice and support for anyone affected by or concerned about bullying.
Family Lives provides advice and support to families