Definition
Bullying is behaviour which is intended to harm or threaten someone. It will often involve multiple incidents which have taken place over a period of time. Usually, but not always, the person doing the bullying would have some power or authority over the other person, but this is not always the case.
Harassment is when someone (deliberately or not) behaves in a way which upsets, intimidates or humiliates someone else. Harassment is often characterised by repeated examples of unwanted behaviour or doing things which create an uncomfortable atmosphere for someone.
Bullying and harassment can be physical, verbal, direct, indirect, online or in person, or through other channels.
Some types of harmful behaviour which could be bullying or harassment include:
- unkind, disrespectful, critical remarks
- shouting at, being sarcastic, ridiculing or demeaning others
- constantly picking, criticising or reviewing behaviour or work
- excluding someone from group activities or communications
- unwanted touching even just 'minor' contact
- making someone the target of jokes or pranks
- discriminatory or derogatory remarks about any protected characteristic someone has (or has a relationship to)
- threatening physical behaviour, violence or sexual assault.
If you think someone you know is being bullied or harassed there are lots of ways in which you can help them.
Listen and Believe
- Listen. If someone discloses that they are being bullied or harassed , listen to their experience, please don’t judge them. It would be great if you show them compassion and empathy. Listening can be a massive help.
- Believe. Just let them explain what happened and how they are feeling. Don’t ask lots of questions, rather reinforce that you believe what they are saying.
- Reassure. Tell them that no one has the right to hurt them and that, no matter what, it is not their fault that this occurred.
- Give Options. Ask them what they want to do next and give them some options (outlined below).
Signpost them to University support services for students
Report & Support is a disclosure site, which allow students to inform the University of incidents including bullying and harassment.
Students and staff can report anonymously, or can request to speak to an advisor, who is a trained member of the Student Welfare team, to discuss your disclosure and options, this will be in line with University's privacy statement and does not instigate the start of formal complaint. Our Counselling, Mental Health, and Wellbeing Service is also available if you need support with your mental health or wellbeing.
External Support
If you need help with your mental health, SHOUT provides text-based crisis support. Text SHOUT to 85258. You can also call the Greater Manchester NHS Mental Health Helpline available 24/7 on 0800 953 0285.