Help others
Monday 16 November 2009
It’s Anti Bullying Week! In the first of three bullying specials we talk you through what to do if you suspect that someone is being bullied.
Anti Bullying Week
This week is dedicated to helping victims of bullying. Schools and students up and down the country are running events and workshops to help tackle the problem. If you want to organise your own event then take a look at this site for awareness-raising ideas.
If you need to talk to someone about bullying then contact ChildLine or Beat Bullying. There are a lot of people who want to help and give you the right advice.
Help a friend
Bullying comes in all forms; verbal, physical, mental and digital. Bullying can take place in the home, school and work.
It may not always be easy for the victims to speak up. They may feel like no one will understand, or they could be afraid of the consequences if the truth came out. Whilst many do go on to tell others off their own accord, some will keep quiet.
This is where you come in. If you know someone is being bullied then perhaps you can help.
Warning signs
Before you jump to conclusions, make sure you get your facts straight. There are loads of tell tale signs that point to a person being bullied. Here are some things to look out for:-
- Name calling
- Is the person taking a lot of time out of school or work without any real explanation?
- Have you heard rumours being spread about them?
- Does the person spend most of their time alone?
- Is the person left out of many activities?
- Do they often seem vulnerable?
Supporting words
Once you’re sure, the first and most helpful thing you can do is talk to them. You'd be surprised at how helpful a few supportive words can be. It can make a big difference.
Let them know that you're aware that something is going on, and that you’re there for them. Provide a shoulder to lean on if you need to. You may not realise it, but a little bit of extra support can make your mate feel less alone, and will help them feel capable of overcoming the bullies. Check out these survival stories.
Stand by them as much as you can as well. Your mate may not want to open up at first but with some persistence from your end they may decide to tell you the truth.
Raise their confidence
Most bullies pick on someone who they think is vulnerable. Try to raise your friend’s confidence a bit by telling them that they’re better than the bullies. Make them see the good points about themselves – you'll be able to help them stand up to the bullies the next time they say or do something.
If your mate is a bit shy then encourage them to go out more. Socialising with others is the best medicine to overcome shyness. Why don't you pass on these words of wisdom from Cheryl Cole?
Visit this site for more videos like this one.
Get more help
Unfortunately, there’s only so much you can do. Eventually you’ll have to tell someone so that your mate can get more help.
They may be against this at first but try to pursuade them that this is the best step to get the bullies to stop. Their teacher or boss will be able to have a few words with the bullies and punish them appropriately without them knowing that anyone said a thing.
At some point your friend may need you to back up their story. Try to keep a diary of what you've seen or noticed to help you out.
If they feel unable to speak to their parent or carer, they can call ChildLine on 0800 1111 for guidance.
