Try to tell someone whether it’s your mate, a teacher, your parents, a helpline or another trusted adult.
It’s a big step talking about what is happening but it can really make a difference. When you have decided who you can talk to, tell them what’s going on and how you feel about It.
Sometimes children tell someone that they are being bullied and it does no good, nothing changes. If this happens to you, the most important thing is not to give up.
Try to find someone else to share your problems with. It is helpful to keep a written note or diary of what is happening as it helps you and a teacher work out the best way to make the bullying stop.
For example, if you write that you are often being bullied in the toilets, you might both decide that teachers should check the school toilets regularly to give the bullies less opportunity to target you.
Ask a teacher to show you the school guidelines on bullying, most have a written policy. If the school is not doing enough to help you, sit down with a teacher and maybe even your parents to come up with some suggestions to improve it.
Think up some good replies for when people make nasty comments. At break times, try to stay with your friends or somewhere where an adult can see you.
For some bullies, the weapon of choice is the internet and mobile phones. Many young people find themselves receiving silent calls or nasty messages via text or instant messenger.
The “scene of the crime” might be different but the rules are the same, again you’ve got to make sure you tell someone about what’s going on.
If you are sent a so called happy slapping image or forwarded a nasty email resist the temptation to pass it on. Break the chain straight away and tell an adult about it.
If you are ever uncomfortable with how a conversation is going in a chat room or on a message board, tell an adult.
Even if you are not being bullied, stop the conversation immediately if you suspect something is not right.
