You might be scared that you will become the victim of bullying, or worried about getting involved in something that ‘isn’t your business’.
Being a bystander to bullying is difficult; but not doing anything means that things are unlikely to change.
Here are a few practical things you can do to handle the situation.
1. Tell an adult what’s going on
You don’t have to sort out a bullying situation on your own.
You might not even be sure if someone’s actions *are* bullying. But if something doesn’t feel right it’s best to be safe and double check.
It can be really helpful to get the opinion of someone you trust who can help work it out. A parent or teacher can take action, but they need to know what’s going on.
If you’re worried about getting someone into trouble, remember that as long as you’re being fair and honest, you are not doing anything wrong by speaking up.
2. Let the person know you’re there for them
When you’re being bullied, it can be easy to feel very isolated.
If you think someone is going through this, let them know they are not alone.
A quick chat, a text or a DM – however you want to show your support, a little message could be a big help.
3. Record it
If you see someone leaving horrible comments or mean messages online, keep a note or take a screenshot to show an adult.
Sometimes bullies will hide or delete nasty stuff, so it really helps if a parent or teacher is able to see for themselves what’s going on.
4. First listen, then offer some practical advice
If you’re being bullied, what you might want most of all is to be listened to and believed. So open up your ears and listen if someone comes to you.
You might not have all the answers to help if someone is being bullied, but it might be really useful if you’re able to share some tips to show your support.
You could share a video, or send a friend these steps.
People may feel shy about being bullied, and it can be hard for them to open up in a face to face conversation – so you could also try messaging them, or suggesting they watch or read something privately, in their own time.
5. Get expert help
Just because it’s not happening directly to you, doesn’t mean that bullying won’t hurt or upset you.
If you want to get some support or advice, try reaching out to experts who can help you out. You contact Childline, or get advice from Anti-Bullying Alliance.
However you take a stand against bullying, whether IRL or online, your support can make a massive difference to someone.
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