Bullying advice for parents

Bullying is when a person or group of people makes someone feel frightened or bad about themselves. This can include name-calling, violence, theft or being forced to do something they do not want to do.

Traditionally, bullying has taken place in the school playground, but bullies also use text messages, emails, websites and forums to be abusive.

Many children are good at hiding their feelings and the first you may know of the problem is when your child suddenly does not want to go to school. Other signs of bullying can include unexplained cuts and bruises, lost dinner money, friendship problems and mood swings.