CP Safeguarding

Let's Talk About Bullying: What It Looks Like, Where to Get Help, and What to Do First

Bullying is something no one should ever have to go through—but sadly, it’s still a reality for many young people, both online and offline. Whether you're a young person experiencing bullying, a parent who’s worried, or a carer supporting someone—you’re not alone, and help is out there.

This blog will help you: Understand the different types of bullying, Spot the warning signs,Know what to do next, and Find the right support.

What Is Bullying?
Bullying is more than just the occasional falling out—it’s repeated, targeted behaviour that hurts someone physically or emotionally. It can happen in school, online, at home, or even in social groups.

The Different Types of Bullying
Understanding the different forms of bullying helps us notice it faster and deal with it more confidently. Here are the main types:

1. Physical Bullying- Hitting, kicking, tripping, or pushing.Stealing or damaging someone’s belongings.

2. Verbal Bullying- Name-calling, insults, racist or sexist remarks. Threats or teasing meant to hurt or humiliate.

3. Social/Relational Bullying- Excluding someone on purpose. Spreading rumours or embarrassing someone publicly. Manipulating friendships or social status.

4. Cyberbullying- Bullying that happens online or through phones. Nasty messages, threats, spreading lies, or sharing private images. Happens on social media, gaming chats, or group messages.

5. Prejudiced-Based Bullying- Targeting someone for their race, religion, gender identity, disability, or sexual orientation. This is serious and often breaks laws around hate speech or discrimination.

 Signs That Someone Might Be Getting Bullied For parents and carers, these could be some red flags:
Sudden anxiety or not wanting to go to school. Changes in eating or sleeping habits. Mood swings, low self-esteem, or depression. Missing belongings or unexplained injuries.
Withdrawing from friends or family. For young people, trust your gut if something feels off. If someone: Keeps putting you down, spreading lies, or turning people against you, Sends mean or creepy messages, Physically hurts you or makes threats, …it’s not your fault, and it’s not okay.

First Actions – What to Do If Bullying Happens

For Young People:
Speak Up– Tell a trusted adult: a parent, teacher, school counsellor, or youth worker.
Save Evidence– Especially for online bullying, take screenshots or keep messages.
Stay Safe– Block/report online bullies and avoid being alone around people who target you.
Know It’s Not You– You didn’t cause this. Bullying says more about the bully than it does about you.

For Parents & Carers:
Listen Without Judgment– Let them talk, stay calm, and believe them.
Reassure Them– Remind them they’re not alone and it’s not their fault.
Contact the School– Ask for a meeting with a teacher or safeguarding lead.
Keep a Record– Log incidents, dates, and any action taken.
Support Their Confidence– Encourage hobbies, social activities, and positive relationships.

Where to Get Support
For Young People:
Childline– Free, confidential 24/7 support: call 0800 1111
The Mix– Advice and support for under 25s
YoungMinds– Mental health support and bullying advice

For Parents & Carers:
Family Lives– Parenting support and bullying advice
Kidscape– Support for children and parents dealing with bullying
NSPCC – Safeguarding advice and how to report serious concerns
Final Thoughts
Whether you're experiencing bullying or supporting someone who is, remember this:
You are not alone. You are not to blame. You deserve to feel safe. Bullying can have a big impact—but with the right support and action, it can be stopped. Start by speaking out. The sooner it’s shared, the sooner it can be sorted.