Bullying

Many young people experience bullying at school. People can also be bullied through text messages, e-mails and internet chat rooms. However it happens, bullying can make life miserable, but it can be stopped.

Bullying can include threats and name calling, physical attacks or having rumours spread about you.

Bullies might say something about the colour of your skin, your weight, your religion, your sexuality, how you look or dress or the fact that you get on with your work in the classroom.

None of this is acceptable. It isn’t your fault that you are being bullied, and you must never blame yourself for it.

Useful contacts

If you are having problems with bullies, or know someone else who is, these organisations can help. They can help you with all types of bullying – inside and outside of school, in internet chatrooms, by e-mail or by mobile phone.

Bullying Online

Loads of info to help you cope with bullying and stop it happening. There are also stories and tips from young people who have been bullied and come through it, and sections for parents and teachers to help them deal with bullied young people.

You can write to or e-mail Bullying Online. Write in any language and Bullying Online will have it translated. They will also reply in your language, if that’s what you would prefer.
Address: Bullying Online, 9 Knox Way, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG1 3JL
e-mail: help@bullying.co.uk

ChildLine

24-hour, confidential advice for young people, on any subject. You can write to ChildLine using a Freepost address (no stamp is needed) or call them on the freephone number listed below. (If you write, remember to include your contact details on the letter, i.e. address, telephone number or e-mail, whichever is the best way for ChildLine to get in touch with you.)
Address: Freepost 1111, London, N1 0BR
Tel: 0800 1111 / Minicom: 0800 400 222

Kidscape

(website and parents helpline)
Kidscape is a national charity working to prevent bullying and abuse. The website has information for young people and parents, in various languages, including Bengali, Chinese, Farsi, Hindi, Punjabi and Urdu. Kidscape also offer a helpline for parents of bullied children.
Tel: 08451 205 204 (parents’ helpline)