Jenny is six years old. She's being teased every day by a classmate. Quiet teasing. Sly teasing. The teacher doesn't notice. It's starting to affect her personality, and performance at school.

Imagine Brett. He's 15. He's cornered at lunchtime and pushed, shoved, kicked by his school mates. He's frightened of the bullies. Too frightened to tell anyone.

Sarah's 10. She's been left out by the 'in crowd'. She's excluded from the playground games. Sometimes the other girls lure her into their group with the promise of being able to join in. And then she's rejected again. She's hurt. She doesn't understand.

Jenni, Brett and Sarah have all been bullied.

What is Bullying?

Bullying is teasing and name calling. It's making someone do something they don't really want to do. It's someone threatening to do something to you. It could be keeping someone out of the group on purpose and spreading rumours.

If someone is bullying you:

• walk, talk and act confidently - even if you don't feel it. Stay calm
• ignore the bully
• remember it's OK to tell - you're not dobbing
• stay away from places where bullying could happen
• stay where your teacher can see you
• keep away from children who you know are bullies
• keep with a group of friends

If you are being bullied think about what makes the bully pick on you. Can you change this. If you can, will it make a difference?

Where can I go to for help?

Talk to your teacher or your mum or dad. They'll help you find ways to solve the problem.

The following support services can also help:

• Bullying No way!
  The Bullying. No way! website gives you a better understanding of the issues surrounding bullying, enable you to share your experiences with others and access support services.
• Kids helpline
  The Kids Helpline is a  free, confidential, anonymous, 24-hour telephone and online counselling service for young people.
• Reachout
  The Reachout website provides information on different issues including drugs, depression and provides suggestions on how to work through these issues.