In our final article to support Anti-Bullying Week 2023, we are looking at the role of the intervener in cases of bullying. We will explore ways in which interveners can ‘make a noise about bullying’ to help support the target.
What is an Intervener?
It can be frightening to witness someone being bullied, and many people are reluctant to get involved. However, there are those who are willing to do something to stop bullying and so protect the target of the bully. This person is an intervener and their actions can go a long way towards putting an end to bullying.
Many interveners were originally bystanders who observed the bullying and wanted to do something to stop it. Rather than leaving it to someone else to take action, interveners take it upon themselves to tackle the bullying. It takes courage, but once someone makes up their mind to do something, they will find opportunities to do so.
How to Intervene to Stop Bullying
We know intervention is a good way to prevent bullying, but how can someone intervene to stop bullying? Here are some ideas:
- Ask a question of the target to distract them. You could ask to borrow a text book or ask if they can help you with something. This can sometimes be enough to distract the bully and thereby diffuse a bullying situation.
- Ask a friend to help you. There is safety in numbers and if two or more of you support the target of bullying, the bully will sometimes back down.
- Speak to a teacher if the bullying gets violent. Often this is the only way to protect the target from harm. You don’t have to confront the bullying alone.
- Take direct action and physically pull the target out of the situation. Stay with them and walk them to safety. Only do this if there is no risk to yourself.
More people need to take positive action when they see someone being bullied. When one person shows that it is possible to stand up to bullies, others are more likely to follow their example.
Bullying Resources
Bullying — A Complete Approach
Contains hints and tips for teachers, parents and young people to enable them to identify and tackle bullying.
- Age range: 12 years and upwards
- Category: Schools
- Last revised: 2022
- Pages: 94
- Illustrated throughout
Ebook: £10.99 
Hard copy: £35.99 add to basket
Bullying in the Workplace
This pack provides guidance for companies on tackling workplace bullying, supporting the targets of bullying and ensuring the wellbeing of staff.
- Focus: Anti-bullying policies for businesses
- Category: Businesses
- Last revised: 2022
- Pages: 50
- Illustrated throughout
Ebook: £8.99
Hard copy: £25.99 add to basket