What you need to know about bullying

What is bullying?  (This is not a complete list, you may have other examples.  Please let us know.)

• Being picked on.
• Being called names.
• Being pushed or pulled around.
• Having things thrown at you.
• Being ignored or left out.
• Having money taken.
• Having your belongings taken.
• Being insulted about your family; background; appearance or sexuality.
• Being hurt – hit; kicked; thumped; slapped; pinched etc.
• Having rumours spread about you.
• Being threatened.
• Being threatened; insulted; humiliated; lied about or having private matters put on the internet.
• Being pressured into doing something you don’t want to do.
• Having your confidence knocked.
• Having someone put the blame on you for their actions – ‘you made me do it’.

“Bullying involves people treating others in a way that is often against the law. The police take bullying seriously. We will listen to the victim, and a bully could face the risk of arrest and prosecution for offences such as assault, making threats, or harassment.” PC Paul Sorensen, Thames Valley Police Schools Officer

If you have been affected by bullying and would like help and support, you can email us on takingthefirststep@connexionsbucks.org.uk and we will get back to you as soon as possible.  We can respond by email, telephone or arrange for you to see a Connexions Personal Adviser.  (It would help if you include your name and phone number but do not be put off if you would rather not.)

Frequency Asked Questions
Questions that young people ask about bullying and answers.

Practical tips

If you are being bullied here are some tips they may help you.

Useful links for parents and schools/teachers

Website links that parents and schools/teachers may find useful about bullying.