Bullying & Cyber-bullying
There is no legal definition of bullying, but it is usually defined as repeated behaviour which is intended to hurt someone either emotionally or physically, and is often aimed at certain people because of their race, religion, gender or sexual orientation or any other aspect such as appearance or disability.
Whilst bullying may be more commonly experienced by younger people, it can occur at any age throughout your life. It can have a huge impact on your self esteem, confidence and general mental health, which can make you feel isolated and that you are on your own.
Cyberbullying is bullying that takes place online, using social networks, games and mobile phones. Unlike bullying in the real world, online bullying can follow you wherever you go.
Bullying and Cyberbullying can happen anywhere and can take many forms including:
- physical assault
- teasing
- making threats
- name calling
Download Our PDF Factsheet
Reporting Bullying and Cyberbullying
If you believe that the bullying or cyber-bullying is being directed at you because of your disability or perceived disability; race or perceived race; religion or perceived religion; sexual orientation or perceived sexual orientation; transgender identity or perceived transgender identity then it may be a hate crime, and we can support you.
If you are experiencing bullying or cyber-bullying, and it does not fall under any of the protected characteristics above, you should report the incident to the police.
If you feel threatened, or if you or someone else is in danger, or if the bullying or cyber-bullying is in progress, call 999
Contacting Us
If you report a crime to Staffordshire Police, they will ask you if you are happy for your details to be passed on to the Staffordshire Victim Gateway. Unless you opt out, we will then automatically receive your contact information and a brief overview of your experience and the crime. If you did opt out, can still self-refer at any time.
We will then contact you directly to offer our service. We can provide you with information, emotional and practical support. We can liaise and advocate on your behalf and introduce you to specialist services who can help your recovery.
Our support is free and confidential, regardless of whether you have reported a crime or incident to the police. We are here to support you.
You can also access a range of tools at www.mysupportspace.org.uk to help you cope and move forwards after crime. This is a free, safe, secure and confidential space where you can choose how you want to be supported after crime.
Crime Prevention Information
Additionally, it may also be useful for you to have advice on crime prevention that may help you to protect yourself in the future. You can find lots of useful information on local crime prevention by clicking here:
https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/