What do I do if I see someone being bullied?

If you witness someone being bullied, it’s important to take action.

Here’s what you can do to help:

Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

• Don’t panic. Observe what’s happening to ensure you can respond safely.

Step 2: Don’t Join In or Encourage

• Never laugh or go along with the bullying, even if it’s subtle. Your actions can make a big difference.

Step 3: Support the Victim

• If it’s safe to do so, step in and offer your support. You could simply stand next to the person being bullied to show they’re not alone.

  • Say something like, "Let’s go somewhere else," to remove them from the situation.

Step 4: Report the Bullying

• Tell a teacher, school counsellor, or trusted adult about what you witnessed. Reporting bullying can help stop it from happening again.

  • If you’re in a public place, inform a security guard or authority figure nearby.

Step 5: Be a Friend to the Victim

• After the bullying incident, reach out to the person who was bullied. Let them know you’re there for them, even if it’s just to listen. Sometimes a little support goes a long way.

Step 6: Don’t Confront the Bully Alone

• If you decide to address the bully, do so only if it feels safe and avoid getting into a confrontation. You can also try talking to them privately to make them realise the harm they’re causing.

Step 7: Encourage the Victim to Get Help

• Suggest that the person being bullied talks to an adult or gets further support from a trusted source like a teacher, school counsellor, or a helpline.

Taking action can help prevent bullying and show the person being targeted that they’re not alone.