Coventry's Anti-Bullying Strategy

Coventry's Anti-Bullying Strategy (PDF) seeks to address bullying in its broadest sense. It recognises that bullying is not just a school-based issue but also takes place in the community.

What is bullying?

Bullying is better understood these days and is taken very seriously as it can have long-term harmful effects and can interfere with a child or young person's right to be safe to learn and play.

There are many legal requirements relating to bullying, including the Human Rights Act, Race Relations, Disability Discrimination as well as other non-statutory guidance. The Anti-Bullying Strategy links with other initiatives such as the Reducing Hate Crime Strategy and work undertaken with particularly vulnerable groups such as Asylum Seekers, Refugees, Looked After Children and children with disabilities.

Bullying is a subjective experience and can take many forms making it difficult to define. The nature of bullying is also changing and evolving as technology develops.

Download Coventry's Anti-Bullying Strategy for Children (PDF).

What defines bullying?

Defining bullying and identifying instances of bullying are the first potential barriers to successfully tackling the problem. Coventry has adopted the following definition which is closely based on one used by the Department for Children, Schools and Families:

"Bullying is an abuse of power by one or more people through repeated hurtful or aggressive behaviour with the intention to cause emotional or physical harm to another person."

Why should you support the strategy?

The Anti-Bullying Strategy has a key focus on partnership working. We want to engage with a broad range of partners and then build consensus that 'we are all in the fight against bullying together' ensuring that Anti-Bullying work is delivered in a coherent and co-ordinated way.

How can you tell if someone is being bullied?

Bullying is often secretive and hidden, young people are sometimes reluctant to report bullying. Are you concerned someone you know is being bullied? Important signs to look for:

Reluctance to go to school
A sudden tummy ache or head ache particularly on Monday morning
An unexplained drop in marks or grades at school
Unexplained bruises, scratches, torn clothes or damaged possessions
Depressed or withdrawn
Spends a lot of time in their room
Fearful or angry with unexplained outbursts
Loss of appetite
Worries more than usual about their appearance, what clothing they wear
Suddenly doesn't want to carry their mobile phone

Gently try to find out what is going on and use discretion. Try to stay calm, reassuring and be practical.

Further information for parents/carers

Parentline Plus
Helpline: 0808 800 2222 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
Website: www.parentlineplus.org.uk (secure e-mail helpline)

Kidscape
Helpline for parents guardians or concerned relatives: 08451 295 204 (Monday - Friday, 10am – 4pm)

Young Minds Parents Information Service
For any adult with concerns about the mental health of a child or young person
Telephone: 0800 018 2138

Advisory Centre for Education
Advice Line: 0808 800 5793 (Monday – Friday, 2pm-5pm)
Website: www.ace-ed.org.uk

Children’s Legal Centre
Advice Line: 0845 456 6811 (Monday - Friday, 9.30am – 5pm)
Advocacy Unit : All calls should come through reception on 01206 872466. Publications: 01206 872466

Parents and Carers Council
Telephone: 07968 857598 / 07870 688973 / 07946 684556
Website: www.parentcarercouncil.co.uk
E-mail: parentsc@aol.com

Bullying