Ask Sam letter

Hi there,

There are many different types of bullying. Being ignored and left out of things is bullying. Other ways of bullying include being called names, being teased, being hit, kicked, pushed or pulled. It can also be having money or other possessions taken, having rumours spread about you and being threatened.

Bullying can take place anywhere like school, home, on the bus, in the street or other public places like the park. Being bullied online such as on your phone, email or on social media is called cyber bullying.

Bullying can happen to anyone, of any age. It's never okay and no one has the right to hurt you or make you feel bad. Being left out can make some people feel alone and it can be difficult for other people to notice that it is happening.

There are things you can do to get the bullying to stop and to deal with how it is affecting you. It might be good to think about what you can do about it. You could tell a friend who could support you and help you to take your mind off it. They might be able to support you if you choose to speak to an adult you trust like a teacher. 

Teachers have a duty to keep you safe when you are at school. You can ask about your school’s anti-bullying policy to find out what the school will do to help you stop the bullying. 

It might also be useful and to have a look at our message boards to see how other people are coping who may be in a similar situation to you. Being bullied can leave you feeling low and unsure how to cope and it might help to try some ideas to build up your confidence and self esteem.

If you feel you would like more support,  you might like to talk to a ChildLine counsellor who would help you to explore your feelings and look more at ideas for coping and for getting the bullying stopped.

Take care for now,
Sam