Bullying
Please read "Working Together to Safeguard Children" page 201
See also "Peer Abuse" in this section of the procedures.
Bullying may be defined as deliberately hurtful behaviour, usually repeated over a period of time, where it is difficult for those bullied to defend themselves. It can take many forms, but the three main types are:
- physical (e.g. hitting, kicking, theft),
- verbal (e.g. racist or homophobic remarks, threats, name calling) and
- emotional (e.g. isolating an individual from the activities and social acceptance of their peer group).
Bullying may take place by direct contact or may be conducted by indirect means (e.g. by phone or e-mail - see the page on Information Communication Technology (ICT) in this section of the procedures).
The damage inflicted by bullying can frequently be underestimated. It can cause considerable distress to children, to the extent that it affects their health and development or, at the extreme, causes them significant harm (including self-harm).
All settings in which children are provided with services, or, are living away from home; should have in place rigorously enforced anti-bullying strategies. In Telford & Wrekin all schools are required to have an anti-bullying policy. Children or Young People who complain of bullying should be helped to make the circumstances known to a staff member, carer or another trusted adult.
If it is found that there is no anti-bullying strategy in place in a given setting, then consideration should be given to involving the Helpdesk (Tel:01952 385700) for further advice or action. Helpdesk staff will respond to such calls in accordance with their internal procedures.
An anti bullying sub group exists within the Board. This sub group has developed a Strategy document and a Guidance document which are to be adopted by all of the constituent agencies. These documents can be found in the document library of these procedures.