Bullying
Bullying is behaviour by an individual or group, repeated over time, that intentionally hurts another individual or group either physically or emotionally. (Preventing and Tackling Bullying, Advice for Head Teachers, Staff and Governing Bodies, DfE, 2011, p. 4)
It can come in different forms which fall into 4 main categories:
- Physical
- Verbal
- Emotional
- Online (cyber)
Bullying is an ongoing and deliberate misuse of power in relationships through repeated verbal, physical and/or social behaviour that intends to cause physical, social and/or psychological harm. It can lead to changes in your child’s behaviour, like refusing to go to school and anxiety.
If your child is being bullied
Keep calm and talk to your child about what’s been happening.
Contact your child’s school. They will provide support and be best placed to discuss any concerns and support.
Ask to see the school’s anti-bullying and behaviour policy.
If your child is bullied or attacked because of their disability, sexuality, gender identity, race, faith or gypsy heritage, this may be a hate crime.
Report a hate crime on the website of Sussex Police
Other help
Websites of organisations promoting anti-bullying and providing advice and solutions:
- special educational need and disability
- website: Amaze SENDIASS East Sussex
- telephone: 01273 772 289 - disability bullying
- website: Anti-bullying alliance - Kidscape provides top tips for dealing with bullying. It has advice for parents and children (in English and 13 other languages)
- website: Kidscape - Bullying UK
- website: BullyingUK family lives
- telephone: 0808 800 2222
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