Talk to your children about bullying

Police are urging parents to speak to their children about what bullying is during Anti-Bullying Week this week.

Bullying can happen to anyone, at any time and in any place. It can be done verbally, physically, emotionally and online. 

If you have noticed that a child you know isn't quite themselves, has low self-esteem, or doesn't want to go to places like school or clubs they're a part of, Derbyshire Police say people should encourage them to talk to you or someone else they trust, and find how they can get help.

If you think a child is in immediate danger, you can call 999. If you're worried about a child but they are not in immediate danger, you should still share your concerns.

You can also contact the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or by emailing help@nspcc.org.uk. Their trained professionals will talk through your concerns with you and give you expert advice.

People should also consider contacting their local child protection services, whose contact details can be found on the website for the local authority the child lives in.

Whatever comes of the conversation, let your child know you are there for them and help is available if someone isn't treating them with the respect they deserve.

Further learning is available on the NSPCC website at https://learning.nspcc.org.uk/child-abuse-and-neglect/bullying. 

Anti-Bullying Week, which is officially organised by Anti-Bullying Alliance (ABA), happens in schools across the country every November. This year's campaign has the theme 'Change Starts With Us' and runs until Friday 15 November.