Dealing with bullying
Disabled children and young people are more likely than their peers to be bullied. Schools have an obligation to recognise, address and prevent all forms of bullying. What are some practical, realistic solutions schools can use to reduce this behaviour? The prevalence of bullying in schools – and the disproportionate risk that disabled children and young people face to being bullied – are not new to those in the education community.
Nor is the understanding of the long-lasting impact bullying can have on young people’s confidence, achievement and self-image – areas that are particularly sensitive for children and young people with spinal cord injuries.
“I was extremely scared about going back to school, not knowing what people were thinking. ”
Danielle, 17
Stopping bullying
Schools are adopting a range of approaches to prevent and tackle bullying, particularly that of disabled children and young people. Some approaches include:
1 General preventative training and awareness raising
2 Monitoring of bullying and SEN/disabilities and tailoring policies accordingly
3 Raising understanding and awareness of disability
4 Development of a whole-school ethos
5 Preventative and reactive small group work with peers to resolve bullying incidents
6 Individualised support and counselling
7 Confidence raising and skills training
8 Improvements to environments and contexts where bullying often occurs
Many strategies are not appropriate or adapted to suit disabled children or young people, so are ineffective at tackling the bullying they face. Research suggests that an integrated system of support is the most effective approach, and requires effective leadership, systems, policies and targeted training and support.
More information can be found on the Anti-Bullying Alliance website.
“My peers could have been more willing to understand; at times it was a bit hostile.”
Laura, 18
Resources
Top Tips for Teachers and staff
Testimonies of parents and carers
Experiences of children and young people: Top tips for teachers from young people
Training
Free online training for teachers and anyone working with children
Kidscape Bullying Awareness training for staff
Support for Parents
Information, advice and support
Advice for parents of disabled children
For Young People
If you’re being bullied – advice and support for young people
Young Minds support around bullying
Information on bullying and cyber bullying from the NSPCC
ChildLine – Types of bullying and support available
Free, safe and anonymous online support for young people from Kooth
Contact
If you’d like learn more about how we can support children and young people with a spinal cord injury, register your interest here and the team will get back to you shortly or give them a call on 020 8875 1805.
