Anti-Bullying Week is a good opportunity to reflect and reach out to those who may be struggling due 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
What is Anti-Bullying week?
Anti-Bullying Week 2022 will take place from Monday 14th November – Friday 18th November and is coordinated by the Anti-Bullying Alliance. The theme this year is Reach Out.
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 bullying mostly online.
Cyberbullying may be harder to spot among your friends as not all messages are public for everyone to see. Reach out to your friends and check if they’re okay.
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.
Why is this week so important?
Whether it is verbal, physical, online or in-person, bullying has a significant impact on a child’s life well into adulthood, affecting both victims and witnesses.
The hope is that Anti-bullying week can raise awareness of bullying and support those who are being affected by it so that we can reduce bullying together.
How can I get involved?
One of the most popular ways to get involved is by participating in Odd Socks Day, which is on Monday 14th November this year. Wear odd socks to share how diverse we all are and how our individuality should be celebrated.
You can snap a pic of your socks and tag us on social media (linked at the bottom of the blog) to show your support.
Related Information
Check out TheSprout’s info page on bullying here.
There’s a really fine line between banter and bullying. Make sure you don’t cross that line by following these tips.
Bullying can really impact someone’s mental health. If you need to talk to someone, talk to Meic. 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 with them online.