Bullying happens all year round and affects many of us. For anti-bullying week this year, let’s take a look at what we can do to help put an end to bullying.
What exactly is bullying?
Bullying can happen in many different forms. It can happen both in-person or online. There are many different types of bullying including:
- Physical bullying
- Verbal bullying
- Sexual bullying
- Racism
- Homophobia
- Emotional intimidation
- Cyberbullying
How common is bullying?
According to the Schools Health Research Network, 1 in 10 secondary school pupils in Wales are bullied every week. 1 in 5 children and young people experienced that bullying mostly online.
It’s important to remember that not everyone who is being bullied shares that information, so the actual rates of bullying may be much higher.
Other research has shown that 40% of young people confirmed that they have been bullied in the past, even if they didn’t admit it at the time.
What is anti-bullying week?
Anti-bullying week is a yearly event run by the Anti-Bullying Alliance to raise awareness of bullying and the impacts it has, as well as to help prevent it. The week will take place between Monday 15th and Friday 19th November. 2021. The theme this year is One Kind Word.
How can I get involved in anti-bullying week?
One of the most popular ways to get involved is by participating in Odd Socks Day, which is on Monday 15th November this year. Wear odd socks to share how diverse we all are. You can even snap a pic of your socks and tag us on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook to show your support.
To stick with the One Kind Word theme, you could look for random acts of kindness ideas, pick your favourites and try to do one kind thing every single day. Some good ideas to get you started could be:
- Leave a nice comment on someone’s social media post
- If you see someone on their own, go and say ‘hi’ and ask if they’re okay
- Report a nasty comment online
- Say sorry to someone you’ve been mean to
Meic are also creating content all week long for anti-bullying week, so make sure you visit their website and follow them on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook to see the latest.
Related Information
Check out TheSprout’s info page on bullying here.
Meic is the national helpline service for children and young people up to the age of 25 in Wales. You can contact them for information, advice and advocacy for free every day between 8am – midnight. Contact them by phone (080880 23456), text (84001), or chat to them online.