This week is Anti-bullying week, where the focus is being aware of  bullying, and on what support there is for people who are being bullied.

Here are some facts about bullying…

What is bullying?
Bullying is repeated behaviour that is intended to hurt someone either emotionally or physically.

Bullying takes many forms:
• physical assault
• teasing
• making threats
• name calling
• excluding
• making unreasonable demands.

It can happen anywhere, is not restricted to schools and takes place in all walks of life, including University and work settings.

Many young people have been bullied at school and starting at University can bring up unpleasant memories, causing distress and mental health problems such as anxiety and depression.

Bullying can occur in University accommodation and in shared houses and it can feel very difficult to escape from these situations.

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Cyber bullying which takes place through emails, texts and social media such as Facebook is now being reported at a worrying rate. It is distressing as it has the potential to permeate into all areas of an individual’s life.

What can you do about bullying?
Talk to someone in your faculty, your GP, support services or the Student Union and get help.

You can find Sheffield Hallam University’s Student Anti-Harassment Policy on SHU space.

Useful organisations providing advice and information include:

Stonewall are also running a campaign called NOBYSTANDERS enabling people to stand up to bulling and hurtful language. To find out more or to get involved go to http://nobystanders.org.uk

Also,here at SHU, there is a display of useful materials in the Student Wellbeing area on Level 1 of the Surrey Building. If you are worried about bullying, please contact Student Advice and Information or Student Wellbeing for help and support.