What is bullying?
Bullying is any behaviour that is intended to hurt or frighten
another person or group of people. It usually takes place over a period
of time. It may involve hitting, taking belongings, name calling or
making offensive remarks. Sometimes bullying is less direct, for
example, spreading nasty stories about someone, being excluded from
friendship groups, sending malicious emails or text messages.
Some bullying is targeted at people because of their differences, the
way they look, their religion, race, family background, or sexual
orientation. Other differences may include a person's taste in music or
sport, their hairstyle or what they wear. Whatever the reason for
bullying, it needs to be taken seriously and responded to quickly.
Help and advice
If you are being bullied or you are a pupil who bullies and wants to stop, you can talk with a parent, teacher or counsellor. You will also find support from agencies like Childline (www.childline.org.uk) and Kidscape (www.kidscape.org.uk).
