For those of us who have experienced bullying, we know how isolating it can be.
It can have a profound impact on our lives.
As parents and carers, we want our children to be happy and carefree for as long as possible, but sadly, it can be difficult to protect them from bullying.
Between April 2023 and March 2024, the NSPCC service Childline delivered almost 8,000 (7,931) counselling sessions where a child’s main concern was bullying.
While the majority of these related to in-person bullying, more than 900 related to online incidents.
This week in Hampshire and all over the UK, we are marking Anti-Bullying Week.
It’s an annual event coordinated by the Anti-Bullying Alliance and serves as a reminder to us all that preventing and responding to bullying is vital.
This year’s theme is ‘Choose Respect’, and it encourages everyone to come together to discuss what bullying means to us and what we can do to stop it.
The effects of bullying, whether online or in person, can last into adulthood.
Children and young people may develop mental health problems like depression and anxiety, have fewer friendships, and become wary or suspicious of others.
As concerned adults, we must do everything we can to prevent and stop any bullying that could be happening to our children.
Spotting the signs that a child is being bullied can be difficult, but we have some tips to help.
If your child is being bullied, they may stop wanting to go to school or take part in normal activities.
They may become withdrawn, upset, or angry at home, suffer from eating problems, or have outbursts and seem out of character.
You may notice they have unexplained physical injuries, their performance at school may suffer, or it may seem as if they’re losing confidence.
They may even start bullying other children.
With online bullying, you may notice that your child is spending more or less time online compared to their usual amount of time.
One way you can help if you think your child is being bullied is by having open conversations with them.
With younger children, you may want to explain what bullying is and ask if anything like that has happened to them.
Whilst speaking to them, it is important to remind them that you are there to listen and help with anything that might be making them feel sad or anxious.
They may feel scared or ashamed that this is happening and may be worried about what will happen if they tell anyone.
It’s best to remain calm and avoid overwhelming them with questions.
Always reassure them that it will be ok and that you’re always there for them.
If they are being bullied online, it’s important to explore how to report or block messages that upset or worry them.
We would advise not to take away their device if they’ve had a negative experience online, as this may make them feel that whatever has happened is their fault.
Instead, it’s always good to advise they take some time away from the app they received the messages on and do another online activity they enjoy, like playing a game.
Generally, it’s a good idea to help them find something that makes them feel good.
Doing something such as playing music or doing sport can help build their confidence.
If they find it difficult to speak about their experience with you, you can suggest they chat with another trusted adult, such as a teacher or family member.
Adults can call the NSPCC Helpline for advice on 0808 800 5000.
There is also further advice on the NSPCC website.
If a child is being bullied at school, it should be reported immediately to their teacher or headteacher.
If the bullying is life-threatening, it is essential that the police are informed as soon as possible.
We also have tips for children and young people on the Childline website www.childline.org.uk.
Our dedicated Childline counsellors are here around the clock for young people who are experiencing bullying of any kind. They can call Childline on 0800 1111 or get in touch via the Childline website.
Michelle Barry, NSPCC Schools Co-ordinator for Hampshire
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