What to do if your child is being bullied

Bullying

Your child isn't alone:

1 in 2 students say that they have been bullied in any school term
Nearly half of secondary school students feel that their teachers are unaware of the bullying that goes on

Your child may not directly tell you that they are being bullied, but may seem out of character, quiet and suddenly not want to go to school.

Try to find out if anything is wrong by talking to them about:

Finding out your child is being bullied can be very upsetting.

Try to remain calm and talk to them about what is happening:

Make a note of what they say has happened, who was involved, where, when, and how often.
Reassure them that they did the right thing by telling you.
Tell your child to report bullying to a teacher immediately.
Talk to your child's school about the bullying. Ask to see their policy on bullying so you know what they will be doing.
Stay in touch with the school. Let them know whether the bullying stops or is still happening.
Encourage your child to stay away from their bully, or to stand up for themselves by standing up straight and showing they are not afraid.
If the bullying is really serious, contact your local police station. The police take any report of bullying very seriously. It will be viewed as a potential criminal offence, be recorded and fully investigated. The police will also work in partnership with other people who could help you resolve the situation.

Get them to show you any messages they've received
Tell them to never respond to an internet bully in a chat room, and never respond to abusive text messages
Make sure they stick to moderated chat rooms
If bullying or abuse starts in a chat room, tell them to leave immediately and tell you - you can then contact CEOPS
Tell them to never to give out personal contact details online or put photographs of themselves on websites

If you have done all this, but are still worried, contact us on antibullying@southtyneside.gov.uk.