Bullying is an important issue that affects many children and young people throughout their time at school and beyond.
Following our observation of Anti-Bullying Week 2024, we’ve put together a brief guide on how to recognise bullying, how to respond if you’re bullied yourself, and how to make the choice to choose respect with your peers.
Read on to find out more.
What is bullying?
Bullying is intentional and repeated behaviour that hurts others.
It can happen anywhere – at school, at home or online.
Bullying can look like:
- Hurtful comments to or about someone
- Threats
- Physical harm
- Exclusionary or discriminatory behaviour
- Any behaviour that is deliberate, repeated and harmful
Your behaviour can have a real impact on how others feel, and bullying others can really hurt them.
What is respect?
Respect is a positive way of treating people, where you show that you care how your words and actions may impact others.
Respect means accepting others for who they are, even though they may have differences from you.
Respect can look like:
- Helping others when they need it
- Showing interest in people and what they have to say
- Saying kind things to others
- Being inclusive
- Treating others how you’d like to be treated
Your behaviour can have a real impact on how others feel, and showing respect can really make someone’s day.
What can I do if I’m being bullied?
Being bullied can be difficult for anybody who experiences it, but you don’t have to suffer alone. Here’s what you can do if you’re being bullied:
1. Talk to someone you trust.
This can be a trusted adult, like a teacher or a family member, or a dedicated support service.
2. Keep a record.
Write down what happened, and keep evidence of online bullying.
3. Don’t seek revenge.
By retaliating, you could get yourself more hurt, and may even get in serious trouble. Stand up for yourself in other ways, like saying “No”, or by involving a teacher.
4. Surround yourself with positivity.
Spend time with people who make you feel good, and do things you enjoy.
5. Don’t blame yourself.
Being bullied is never your fault.
6. Be proud of who you are, and show respect to others.
Everybody is valuable just as they are, and we all deserve to be proud of ourselves and treated with respect.