Helping to be Bully-Free Cheshire East
Is it bullying or just a fall out
There are three agreed defining features of bullying:
- the victim is targeted by an individual or group on a regular basis
- there is intention to harm or humiliate
- there is a power imbalance, the victim is fearful of those targeting him or her
When all of the above are happening, it is highly likely that this is a bullying situation.
Bullying can take different forms. It could include:
- physical bullying: hitting, slapping or pushing someone
- verbal bullying: name calling, gossiping or threatening someone
- non-verbal abuse: hand signs or text messages
- emotional abuse: threatening, intimidating or humiliating someone
- exclusion: ignoring or isolating someone
- undermining, constant criticism or spreading rumours
- controlling or manipulating someone
- making silent, hoax or abusive calls
The following types of bullying are also hate crime:
- racial, sexual, transphobic or homophobic bullying
- bullying someone because they have a disability
If the situation is a fallout between friends, but you remain concerned, please discuss with an adult working with your child and ask them to monitor things.
Anti-bullying week 2022
Anti-Bullying Week 2022 will take place from Monday 14 – Friday 18 November with the theme 'Reach Out'.

Page last reviewed: 29 September 2022