A Guide to Anti-Bullying Week for parents
Bullying can be hard for children to label, but anti-bullying Week gives schools and families a gentle opening to talk about kindness, difference, friendship and what to do when something doesn't feel right.
What is Anti-Bullying Week?
Anti-Bullying Week is an annual awareness week in England, usually held in November. Schools typically use the week as an opportunity for assemblies, classroom activities and stories that help students of all ages recognise bullying, know how to get help, and understand the part everyone can play in making schools feel safer.
What bullying can look like
Bullying is typically a repeated, intentional behaviour that involves an imbalance of power - and crucially there's no real boundary on where it can take place. It can happen face to face, online, on the way to school, in after-school clubs, or in group chats, which can make it really difficult for parents and educators to spot.
Not every friendship fall-out is necessarily bullying, but it's so important that we as adults, still give these moments of distress the attention they deserve.
Next steps for parents
While there's no single sign that proves that bullying is happening, it's worth noting that it's totally normal for some children to feel comfortable telling adults directly, whereas others show it through changes in their mood or behaviour. The important thing to remember is to stay vigilant and to question things when signs appear.
A calm question here and there, along with a listening ear can help a child feel safer and more supported, and if in doubt, asking teachers about what's happening at school is a sensible next step to understanding the bigger picture.
If you think a child needs help, the following organisations offer free advice and have specially trained advisors on-hand to help deal with bullying and its effects:
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