Bullying is not acceptable in our schools. Information is provided here about bullying, signs to look for and what to do if your child is being bullied.

The Council promotes positive relationships. We do not tolerate any form of bullying or prejudice-based bullying within our establishments.

What is bullying behaviour

We consider certain types of behaviour as bullying. Bullying behaviour includes:

  • name calling
  • hitting, tripping or kicking
  • stealing or damaging another child's belongings
  • ignoring or leaving out another child, or spreading rumours about them
  • sending abusive text messages, e-mails or on social networking sites, e.g. Bebo or Facebook
  • targeting another child because of who they are or who they are perceived to be.

What signs you should look for

Your child will show signs if they are being bullied. You child may:

  • become withdrawn
  • have scratches and bruises they cannot really explain
  • not want to go to school or have trouble with school work
  • not want to go out and play with friends
  • change their route to school
  • complain of headaches, stomach aches and other pains
  • become upset easily, tearful, ill-tempered or display other unusual behaviour

What to do if your child is being bullied

If your child tells you they are being bullied then your response is very important. Please do not panic and keep an open mind.

  • You must listen to what they say.
  • Try to find out what has happened
  • where it happened
  • when it happened
  • who was involved
  • what type of bullying they experienced.
  • Ask your child what they would like to happen and agree a way forward.

Talk to your child if you have any concerns. If they do not wish to talk to you then encourage them to speak to another adult, e.g. teacher.

You can speak to your child's Headteacher if the bullying is at school.

More information is available: