Bullying hurts. It makes you scared and upset. It can make you so worried that you can't work well at school. It can make you feel that you are no good, that there is something wrong with you. Bullies can make you feel that it's your fault.

Bullying can mean many different things. These are some ways children and young people have described bullying:

• being called names
• being teased
• being pushed or pulled about
• being hit or attacked
• having your bag and other possessions taken and thrown around
• having rumours spread about you
• being ignored and left out
• being forced to hand over money or possessions
• being attacked or teased or called names because of your religion or colour
• being attacked or teased or called names because of your sexuality

How to beat bullying – Child Line’s top tips

Here are some ideas about how you can deal with bullying. Think about your situation, and what options might be best for you.

• Don’t ignore bullying – it won’t go away on its own and it may get worse.
• Tell someone you trust – such as a teacher, parent or friend.
• Remember – it’s not your fault. No one deserves to be bullied.

Here are some other things you might want to think about:

• Keep a record – and save any nasty texts or emails that you have been sent.
• Try to stay away from the bullies or stay with a group when you don't feel safe.
• Ask your mates to look out for you.
• Try not to retaliate – you could get into trouble or get hurt.
• Check your school’s anti-bullying policy. This will tell you what your school should do about bullying.
• Try to act more confident – even if you don’t feel it.
• Call Child Line for extra help on 0800 1111.

(Copy supplied by Childline.)

The Off Centre offers free and confidential counselling, art therapy, advice and information and support for 13-25 year olds in Hackney. Their trained counsellors can help you with issues such as family problems, stress, bullying, bereavement, self-harm, depresssion and drug or alcohol problems.  Call in for an appointment at 25 - 27 Hackney Grove, E8 3NR, call 020 8986 4016 or visit www.offcentre.org.uk

Some other helpful sites for victims of bullying

www.beatbullying.org

Providing children and young people and professionals help and advice about bullying.

www.bullying.co.uk

Providing practical information and advice to young people and their parents through the website and by email.

www.kidscape.org.uk

Helping children and young people prevent bullying and child abuse.

www.antibullying.net

Supporting anti-bullying work in schools

www.bullybusters.org.uk

Anti Bullying Helpline to provide support for victims of bullying and their families.