Bullying may be defined as deliberately hurtful behaviour, usually repeated over a period of time from one person to another who finds it difficult to defend him or herself. It can mean verbal threats or intimidation and may be carried out using mobile phones or through chatrooms on the internet.

Usually the bully is in a position of power or has physical strength over the other, but not always. The impact of bullying on a child’s physical, emotional and psychological wellbeing is often underestimated.

It’s essential for you to include bullying in the code of behaviour document and consider expanding this into a specific bullying policy.  It can be a really good exercise to include children and young people when you’re writing these documents and to share them with parents, carers and any other visitors to the organisation.




Preventing bullying behaviour
This four-module NSPCC EduCare anti-bullying programme will help you understand and prevent bullying behaviour and create a culture of safety for the children and young people in your care. Sign-up for your free course



Bullying: information for secondary school pupils (PDF)
National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC).

Bullying: why it matters (PDF)
Young Minds.

Worried? Need to talk?
NSPCC.

In the know: keeping safe and strong
NSPCC.

Bullying: what can parents do? (PDF) 
NSPCC.


Other sources of information
Anti-Bullying Alliance (ABA)
Kidscape
Anti-Bullying Network
ChildLine
Bullybusters
Bullying UK