Introduction
This policy outlines our commitment to preventing and addressing bullying in all its forms, including physical, verbal, and online bullying, within our service. We recognise that bullying can have long-term harmful effects on individuals, particularly those who have experienced trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). Our approach is trauma and ACEs-informed, focusing on creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for all individuals.
Policy Statement
We are committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment for all service users, staff, and volunteers. Bullying, including physical, verbal, and online forms, will not be tolerated under any circumstances. We recognise that trauma and ACEs can influence individuals’ behaviours, and our policy aims to prevent bullying while offering support to those affected.
Scope
This policy applies to:
- All service users, including children, young people, and adults
- All staff, volunteers, and partners involved in the delivery of our services
- Any behaviour or incidents that occur within our services, on our premises, during activities, and in any online or virtual interactions
Definition of Bullying
Bullying is defined as deliberately hurtful behaviour, repeated over time, that targets an individual or group. It can take several forms:
- Physical bullying: Hitting, pushing, or other forms of physical aggression.
- Verbal bullying: Name-calling, teasing, or making threats.
- Online bullying: Harassment, threats, or harmful behaviour conducted through digital platforms (e.g., social media, messaging apps).
Trauma and ACE-Informed Approach
Understanding that bullying can affect individuals differently depending on their background and experiences, especially those with trauma and ACEs, our approach integrates trauma-informed practices:
- Empathy and understanding: Recognising how trauma and ACEs may influence behaviour and reactions.
- Safety: Ensuring the environment feels safe and supportive for everyone, reducing re-traumatisation.
- Empowerment: Supporting individuals to regain control over their experiences and responses.
Prevention Strategies
We will take proactive steps to prevent bullying:
- Training and awareness: All staff will receive training on recognising signs of bullying, trauma-informed practices, and how to handle bullying incidents sensitively.
- Promoting respect and inclusion: We will encourage positive behaviours, respect for others, and an inclusive environment through ongoing discussions, group activities, and leadership from staff.
- Clear expectations: Our behaviour management policy will set clear expectations for respectful behaviour and outline consequences for bullying.
- Parental and community involvement: We will work with families and the wider community to foster understanding and prevent bullying from extending beyond our services.
Reporting Bullying
Anyone who experiences or witnesses bullying is encouraged to report it. The reporting process will be trauma-informed, ensuring individuals feel safe and supported throughout:
- How to report: Reports can be made verbally or in writing to any staff member. If preferred, reports can also be made anonymously through an online form or via a confidential telephone line.
- Support during reporting: A trusted member of staff will support the individual throughout the process, ensuring they are not re-traumatised.
- Non-retaliation: No individual will be penalised or retaliated against for reporting bullying.
Responding to Bullying Incidents
When bullying is reported, we will take the following steps to address the incident:
- Investigation: A thorough, impartial investigation will be conducted. The person affected will be given the opportunity to share their perspective in a safe and confidential manner. The accused will also be given the opportunity to respond.
- Support for the individual(s) affected: Support will be provided to the individual(s) affected by bullying, including trauma-informed counselling, mentoring, or other services. We will work with them to address any impact and provide coping strategies.
- Support for the individual(s) responsible for bullying: A restorative approach will be used where appropriate, focusing on understanding the root causes of their behaviour, which may include previous trauma or ACEs. We will provide support to address underlying issues, including offering counselling or mentoring.
- Sanctions: If bullying behaviour is confirmed, appropriate sanctions will be implemented based on the severity of the incident. Sanctions may include warnings, time-limited exclusion from activities, or other measures in line with our behaviour policy. However, these will always be accompanied by efforts to address the root causes of the behaviour and promote positive change.
- Follow-up: Regular check-ins with the affected individual(s) will be conducted to ensure the bullying has stopped, and that they feel safe and supported. Further intervention may be taken if necessary.
Record-Keeping
All incidents of bullying will be documented confidentially. Records will include:
- Details of the incident
- Individuals involved
- Actions taken
- Any ongoing support provided
- Follow-up measures
Records will be reviewed periodically to identify patterns and to ensure that appropriate actions have been taken.
Supporting Staff and Volunteers
Staff and volunteers will be supported in managing bullying incidents through:
- Training in trauma-informed approaches: Ensuring that all staff understand the impact of trauma and ACEs on individuals and know how to respond appropriately.
- Supervision and debriefing: Opportunities for staff to discuss any difficulties or concerns they have in managing bullying incidents, particularly where the issue may involve complex trauma-related behaviours.
Review of the Policy
This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure its effectiveness, compliance with UK laws and regulations, and alignment with best practices in trauma-informed care and bullying prevention. Feedback from service users, staff, and other stakeholders will be incorporated into the review process.
Legal Compliance
This policy complies with UK legislation, including:
- The Equality Act 2010
- The Children Act 1989
- The Education Act 2002
- The Protection from Harassment Act 1997
- The Data Protection Act 2018 and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
Conclusion
We are committed to providing a safe environment where bullying is not tolerated. By taking a trauma and ACEs-informed approach, we aim to not only address bullying but also to foster resilience, empathy, and respect among all individuals involved in our services.
