At St Joseph's, we want all of our children to be safe and happy so that they can be the very best people that they can be.  We know that, from time to time, all children experience difficulties and we want to help.  Sometimes, children experience difficulty either being bullied or bullying someone else.  

Bullying is an emotional and stressful issue for parents and it can sometimes be difficult to know how best to help your child. 

What is bullying?

Bullying is intentional behaviour that hurts someone else. It includes name calling, hitting, pushing, spreading rumours, threatening or undermining someone.

It can happen anywhere – at school, at home or online. It's usually repeated over a long period of time and can hurt a child both physically and emotionally.

What should I do if my child is affected by bullying?

Bullying in any form is not tolerated at St Joseph's.  If you believe that your child is being bullied, please speak to any member of school staff who will listen to you, your child and the others involved to decide the best way to sort things out. You can do this in person, by phone, by email or through the SHARP system.  The SHARP System

You can read more in our Bullying Policy and Child Friendly Anti Bullying Policy and in our Behaviour Policy. 

The NSPCC helps parents understand more about what is and is not bullying:

https://www.nspcc.org.uk/what-is-child-abuse/types-of-abuse/bullying-and-cyberbullying/

 

How to talk to your child about bullying

1. Choose the right time.
   Make sure you can give your child your full attention. They might feel more comfortable talking in the car when you’re not looking directly at them. Or they might prefer to do it at home. Be led by how they’re feeling.
2. Listen and reassure.
   Remain calm, even if you’re upset or angry. Your child might be feeling scared or embarrassed. You can help them respond to what’s happening in a way that feels right to them.
3. Help them get their feelings out.
   Some children respond well to having a journal to draw or write their feelings in. This can be useful if they’re confused or ashamed about what’s happening.
4. Get more advice, if needed.
   If you want more in-depth advice you can use our advice on talking about difficult topics.

If you need help immediately, you can contact Childline    

https://www.childline.org.uk/get-support/contacting-childline/

Please remember that, at St Joseph's, we are always here to help.  Please talk to a member of staff if you feel that your child is affected by bullying.