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Bullying

In Scotland, bullying is defined as:

Bullying is both behaviour and impact; the impact is on a person's capacity to feel in control of themselves. This is what we term as their sense of ‘agency'. Bullying takes place in the context of relationships; it is behaviour that can make people feel hurt, threatened, frightened and left out. This behaviour happens face to face and online.

respectme

Bullying can include verbal, physical and online abuse. Children or adults could experience the following:

  • Physical assault such as hitting or kicking
  • Name calling
  • Abusive messages online
  • Being left out

Bullying is not acceptable and the Church of Scotland is committed to listening, providing support and taking appropriate action.

Reporting

If you suspect or witness bullying, or it is reported to you, you must immediately report it to your Safeguarding Coordinator or line manager.

If you are a Safeguarding Coordinator, and bullying has been reported to you, contact the Safeguarding Service for advice.

If harm or abuse has happened, a crime has occurred or the person is in immediate danger, police or social work can be contacted first, and the Safeguarding Service after.

Further guidance

  • respectme
  • NSPCC
  • Children 1st

Photography and video guidelines

Chapter 6: Managing those who ‘pose a risk’

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