​What to do if you see others being bullied

If you see someone bullying a friend or classmate, it can be difficult to speak up. It’s easier to turn away, or to watch and laugh so you aren’t next. But the person being bullied might be in need of a hero.

When you see bullying at school, in your social clubs, or on the sports field, here are some things you can do.

Why you should help someone being bullied

It takes a brave leader to step in and stand up for their beliefs. By making clear you don’t support the bullying, you show that you have values and integrity and you feel empathy with the victim. These are all values highly prized from leaders.

Also, bullies can drag down everyone around them and make school a scary place. By being part of efforts to stop bullying, you make your school better for everyone! Being called out on their behaviour may also help the bully change.

What to do if you see someone being bullied

• Refuse to join in or watch: Bullies like to perform for an audience. If you rob them of that audience reaction, you may deflate them. When you walk away, you may encourage others to follow.
• Get help: If someone is in real danger from a bully, find an adult you trust and ask for help. If the situation is an emergency, call 111.
• Stop passing on gossip: Bullying often involves spreading gossip or rumours about a victim, or revealing secrets they told a person in confidence. When a friend whispers something vicious about another person, don’t pass it on. Let the rumour die. If you feel comfortable, tell the person spreading the rumour why they should stop.
• Stand up for the victim: If you feel safe, tell the bully that they need to stop. Bullies crave social status, so when they see their peers disapproving of their actions, or make them look foolish, they will often alter their behaviour.
• Offer support and empathy: Be a friend to the victim and help make at least part of their day enjoyable. Encourage the victim to speak with an adult about what’s happening. You can stand beside them for support while they do it.
• Speak to an adult yourself: This can be tricky, but if you feel it’s the right thing to do, you need to speak to an adult. If you’re concerned about word getting around about what you said, you can ask to remain anonymous.

Bullying is an insidious problem that has long-term repercussions for both victims and bullies. Take a stand and help stop bullies at your school or community.