Don't be scared to report cases of bullying. Help and support is there in many forms.
The Bullies Vs The Bullied
You may be reluctant to report incidents of bullying out of fear of the consequences or concern that you will be left unsupported.
Sample: report form - a form to collate your evidence.
Some children with disabilities or communication difficulties may not be aware they are being bullied. They may also have difficulty explaining what is happening. Staff, volunteers, children and young people, parents and carers should look out for signs of bullying and report it immediately.
You may not be involved directly in bullying but you may be able to identify particular roles within the bullying cycle:
The Ring Leader – this is the person who dictates the bullying activity through intimidation and influence.
Assistants/Associates – this is the person who contributes towards the bullying in order to avoid being victimised by the ring leader.
Reinforcers – show positive signs of encouragement and support towards the bully.
Outsiders/Bystanders – witness the bullying and stay silent and thereby appear to condone the bullying behavior.
Defenders – try and stop the bullying or offer support to the victim.
It is important to remember that bullies can adopt a range of these behaviors at different times.