Bullying

What is bullying?

Bullying can take on lots of different forms and can happen anywhere.

But however it might look, it’s always wrong. If someone’s behaviour towards you is stopping you from feeling safe and in control, it is bullying.

It’s good to be clear about what that bullying behaviour might look like.

Here are some examples, which could happen face to face or online:

  • Name calling and teasing
  • Being put down or made to feel small
  • Being ignored or left out
  • Having rumours spread about you
  • Having threats made against you
  • Being picked on because of who you are or how people see you
  • Having money and other belongings taken or messed about with
  • Pushing or pulling you, hitting or kicking
  • Receiving nasty messages online
  • Nasty comments made about you online.
@reach.scot

Bullying can make you feel upset, unsafe and it can affect your learning. If you are experiencing bullying it’s really important to talk to someone you trust about it #antibullyingweek #bullying #bullyingawareness #bullyingisnotokay

♬ Sun (Lofi) – Muspace Lofi

There can be many reasons behind why someone bullies someone else. It may be because of their attitude towards other people, or it could be because of their own insecurities.

I’m being bullied

What are my options?

This video from RespectMe has more suggestions for how to deal with with bullying behaviour:

“Definitely talk to someone. It’s the best thing you can do, and you have to know that you don’t need to go through this alone. Let someone know it’s happening and they can help you through it…”

A young person who has experienced bullying

How can my school help?

Your school should have anti-bullying policies that they follow. These are there to protect all pupils and staff.

They should take the time to talk with you. School staff have a responsibility to listen to any concerns that you have. They should also give you the opportunity to share suggestions that you think could help make things better.

You have the right to have your say and shape your support.

If you are 12-15 and finding it difficult to speak to your school about bullying, an organisation called My Rights, My Say can help.

You can contact them by hitting the button below:

Who else can help?

RespectMe is Scotland’s anti-bullying service and has information and advice about bullying for young people.

An image of the RespectMe logo which consists of the word 'Respect' in pink and 'Me' in blue. Below blue text also reads 'Scotland's anti-bullying service. Above the letter 'M' is a circle with various circles inside it that are yellow, blue, red, light green and pink.

You can visit RespectMe for more practical advice and guidance on dealing with bullying behaviour.

If you are struggling with your mental health or need someone to talk to, there are also resources available to you.

SAMH (Scottish Association for Mental Health) has a range of support services. These include a helpline and online resources to help you take care of your mental health and wellbeing.

If you need urgent help, you can text YM to 85258 to contact YoungMinds. Their website features stories from other young people and has great advice about looking after your mental health.

An image with a transparent background and the Childline logo - the word 'Childline' in blue. Blue text below this reads 'Online, on the phone, anytime.

If you’re struggling and feeling stressed, Childline has online 1-to-1 counselling and information to help. You can also call Childline on 0800 1111. If you are deaf you can use SignVideo.

More advice