Bullying support
Bullying can be about anything and it can happen to anyone. It doesn’t matter what your height is, what your hair is like, what clothes you are wearing, how you speak, how you walk – it is not your fault if you get bullied. We are all different in some way and that’s what makes us amazing.
Bullying makes us feel bad and it’s okay to be upset about it. The important thing is that you tell someone about it. If you feel you can, talk to a teacher you trust or a family member. If you don’t want to do that you can always call Childline 0800 11 11 or visit www.childline.org.uk. The Anti-Bullying Alliance has tips on things you can do to help you deal with bullying:
When it happened, and who was involved. If the bullying is online, keep the evidence – save or copy any photos, videos, texts, emails or posts.
It can be tempting if you are being bullied to take revenge – for example to send a horrible message back to someone; to try and embarrass and hurt the other person, or to fight back. This is not a good idea – you might end up getting in trouble or get yourself even more hurt.
For example, practice saying ‘I don’t like it when you say that/do that – Stop.' Think about other people who can help you if you are being bullied – this could be other classmates, or a teacher.
If someone constantly puts you down they are not a real friend/ boyfriend/ girlfriend and not worth your time.
Do things that make you feel good, relax and make new friends. You might make music; write lyrics; draw cartoons; dance; act or join a sports club. This is your life so make sure it’s the best life possible – don’t let anyone bring you down.
Just because someone is different to you and your friends – that doesn’t mean you are better than them or have a right to make them feel bad. If you mess up, say sorry. You don’t have to be friends with everyone – but you should always make it clear that you don’t like it when people bully others, and stick up for people who are having a hard time.
Here are some other sources of support and information: