It’s September and it’s back to school! Here’s Bullybusters’ top tips for returning to school – whether you’re starting a new school or going into a new year. It’s great advice too for parents too who are looking for the best way to support their children.
Get to know the staff at your school
It’s important to know who your learning mentor, pastoral support and head of year are when returning to school. Getting to know the staff will make things much easier if you ever need to speak to them for any help or guidance throughout the school year.
Remember your “Safe hands”
Bullybusters are very passionate about talking about the idea of “Safe Hands”. These are the 5 people you can count off on one hand that you can trust and speak to when you’re in need of help. Ideally at least 3 of them should be adults over 18. For example you could have 3 teachers at school to choose from so there is always someone you could speak to. The other 2 could be a friend, a sibling or even a pet. You can also use your “Safe Hands” at home when considering who to go to for help.
Don’t be a Bystander
The Bullybusters team often hear how no one wants to be a “snitch”. However, there’s a difference between being a ‘snitch’ and telling an adult what you have seen so that person can be helped. If you’re snitching on someone it’s to get them in trouble. Even if you feel as though you can’t tell the teacher, go and ask that person if they are okay and see if there is anything you can do. Encourage them to ask for some help.
Use the 4 W’s
If you witness bullying in the classroom or the playground, use the 4 W’s to tell an adult about it:
Who was it? What happened? Where did it happen? When did it happen?
Don’t blame yourself, it’s never your fault – Always look to seek help and support if you are being bullied or having a hard time for whatever reason. Talking to someone about what is happening is the best way to resolve the issue.
Use Bullybusters’ Website and Helpline
The Bullybusters’ Website tells you all about the support available from Bullybusters as well as helpful and practical tips.
The Bullybuster’s helpline is open from 3 – 6pm Monday to Friday for children and young people, parents and teachers – 08001696928.
Bullybusters is an anti-bullying initiative funded by Liverpool, Sefton and Knowsley Council to deliver lessons, assemblies and an anti-bullying helpline. It is operated by the charity, Local Solutions.
Young Sefton residents have ‘adopted’ a stretch of the Leeds Liverpool Canal in an effort to help people with mental health issues.
efton Council’s Active Workforce team are excited to bring it’s successful Aquathlon challenge back to Southport – and it’s open for everyone.