Anti-Bullying Week 2012: 19-23 November
We’re better without bullying
This year's theme is ‘We're better without bullying’, and shines a light on the effect of bullying on achievement. We know that bullying can lead to children missing school, failing exams, dropping out of sport, avoiding extra-curricular activities and limiting their life choices and through this year’s theme the Anti-Bullying hopes to:
· Raise awareness of the affects of bullying on the achievement of children and young people
· Encourage children and young people to challenge bullying that takes place in their schools and clubs, and to support one another to achieve their best
· Encourage schools and clubs to create environments where bullying is not tolerated and where all children and young people feel encouraged and supported to take part
· Work with schools and other youth club providers to empower children with special educational needs and disabilities to take an active role in developing anti-bullying policy and practice in schools and clubs
· Raise the esteem and resilience of children and young people who have been victims of bullying.
Tips for children and young
people
· Bullying is not your fault. It is always wrong and you do not have to put up with it.
· Let someone know what is happening as soon as possible. Talk things through with a friend, your family, or your teachers.
· Do not do or say anything in response to the bully. Stay calm and remove yourself from the situation wherever possible. If it is happening through your phone or the internet, keep a copy of the messages or images but do not reply or respond.
· Keep a note or a diary of what is happening.
· Be confident – you have done nothing to deserve this.
· Be assertive.
· You could say ‘This is not funny. This is bullying. This is wrong.’
· Think who can help you – young people or adults.
· Seek help from other young people e.g. school might have a peer mentor or buddy scheme
· Say to someone ‘Please would you watch what is happening here’ and ask them to help you report the incident.
·
Sometimes it can help to talk to someone outside of the situation. You
could call ChildLine on 0800 11 11.
Help and advice
ChildLine
ChildLine is the UK’s free, confidential helpline for children and young people. Trained volunteers are on hand to provide advice and support, by phone and online, 24 hours a day. Call Childline on 0800 1111 or visit www.childline.org.uk.
CyberMentors
CyberMentors is a safe social networking site providing information and support for young people affected by bullying. Young people aged 11-25 are trained as CyberMentors in schools and online, so that they can offer support and advice to other young people. CyberMentors are also supported by trained counsellors, who are available online if needed. For more information and free CyberMentors resources for teachers visit www.cybermentors.org.uk.
