Signs your child may be being bullied

Changes worth noticing

• Avoiding school, sport, transport, a class, lunch area or usual activity.
• Headaches, stomach aches, sleep changes, nightmares or unexplained injuries.
• A sudden drop in confidence, concentration, attendance or schoolwork.
• Missing money, food or belongings, or repeatedly damaged clothing or devices.
• Distress after messages, gaming or group chats, or sudden deletion of accounts.
• Losing friends, being repeatedly left out or becoming the regular punchline.

How to begin the conversation

Choose a private, unhurried moment. Start with what you have noticed rather than an accusation: 'You have seemed worried before school this week. I am here to listen, and you are not in trouble.'

Listen to the whole account before asking questions. Thank them for telling you, make clear that the harm is not their fault and ask what would help them feel safer today.

What not to do first

• Do not tell them to ignore it, toughen up or fight back.
• Do not confront another child or family yourself.
• Do not promise complete secrecy if someone may be unsafe.
• Do not remove all device access as a punishment for telling you.
• Do not post allegations or identify children publicly.

When to act urgently

Call Triple Zero (000) if there is immediate danger, a serious injury, a weapon, a credible threat or the young person cannot stay safe. Stay with them if they mention suicide or self-harm. Sexual harm, stalking, extortion and intimate-image threats also require prompt adult action.