What to Do If Your Child Is Being Bullied
Bullying can have a serious impact on a child’s well-being, and some forms of bullying are illegal. If your child is a victim, it’s important to act quickly, understand your rights, and take appropriate steps to protect and support them.
When Bullying Becomes a Crime
Certain types of bullying are considered criminal offences and should be reported to the police. These include:
- Racist abuse
- Violence or assault
- Theft
- Cyberbullying
- Ongoing harassment or intimidation (e.g. threats, name-calling, abusive messages)
- Hate crimes
Your Child’s School and the Law
By law, all state schools in England and Wales must have a behaviour policy in place that outlines how they address and prevent bullying. This policy must be accessible to all parents, students, and school staff — typically via the school’s website or by request (email or post).