Bullying
Bullying can affect how children and young people feel about themselves, their relationships and their safety. It involves repeated, deliberate behaviour that causes harm through a misuse of power, such as physical strength, social influence or popularity. Bullying can include hurtful comments, threats, physical aggression, spreading rumours, deliberate exclusion and online abuse. Online, harmful content may be shared repeatedly, extending its reach and impact. While disagreements and isolated unkind incidents are not always bullying, all harmful behaviour deserves attention.
Recognising bullying early and responding with understanding can make a significant difference. Young people may be reluctant to speak up because they feel embarrassed, fear the situation will worsen or believe nothing will change. Creating a safe, supportive environment where they feel heard, believed and reassured can help them share their experiences and access support.
Practical ways to support young people experiencing bullying:
Recognise changes in behaviour
Choose a calm, private moment to check in without pressure. Gentle questions such as “How are things going with your friends?” or “Is anything happening at school or online that makes you feel uncomfortable?” can help open the conversation.
Start conversations with care
Choose a calm, private moment to check in without pressure. Gentle questions such as “How are things going with your friends?” or “Is anything happening at school or online that makes you feel uncomfortable?” can help open the conversation.
Listen and take their concerns seriously
Give your child time to explain what has happened without interrupting or rushing to offer solutions. Avoid dismissing the experience as teasing or a normal part of growing up. Acknowledge how upsetting or frightening it may feel.
Reassure them they are not to blame
Remind your child that nobody deserves to be bullied and that asking for help is the right thing to do. Saying “I’m glad you told me. This is not your fault, and we’ll work through it together” can provide reassurance.
Involve them in planning the next steps
Ask what would help them feel safer and discuss which trusted adults could support them. Explain what you plan to do and keep them informed. Their views matter, while responsibility for addressing bullying remains with adults.
Develop a practical safety plan
Identify safe places, supportive peers and trusted adults your child can approach when bullying occurs. Practise moving away and seeking help. Avoid encouraging retaliation or suggesting that your child must confront the person involved to make the bullying stop.
Work with the school and follow up
Keep a factual record of incidents, including dates, locations and what happened. Share concerns with the teacher or wellbeing team and agree on actions, safety arrangements and a review date. If bullying continues, raise the matter with school leadership.
Respond to online bullying
Help your child avoid replying or retaliating. Preserve evidence safely, report harmful content to the platform and use blocking and privacy settings. Serious cyberbullying affecting a child under 18 can be reported to eSafety if the platform does not help.
Strengthen connection and confidence
Make time for activities your child enjoys and opportunities to connect with supportive friends, family and community groups. Recognise their strengths and interests, and remind them that other people’s hurtful behaviour does not define their value.
Seek additional support when needed
If distress persists or affects school attendance, sleep or everyday life, seek support from a school counsellor, GP or qualified mental health professional. Act promptly if there are threats, injuries or concerns about immediate safety.