Short messages on Bullying/abuse from Respect Yourself, the guidance site for young people to help make good decisions in life.
Name-calling hurts and is a form of bullying. Think how it would feel if someone said those words to you, or if a group of people said them.
Report a crime or anti-social behaviour by calling the police, or Crimestoppers (0800 555 111) if you want to remain anonymous – they will pass the info on to the police.
Forgiveness sets you free from resentment’s confines; it breaks down the walls that anger builds and negativity reinforces. When we forgive, we stop letting ours pasts dictate our presents. We acknowledge we want the very best for ourselves; accepting that our past makes us the person we are today, and embracing that.
It takes huge strength and courage to express and communicate our pain to the people who hurt us. In doing so, we expose our vulnerable side – the very part that we want to protect and keep safe. But when we communicate painful emotions, we take a step outside of our comfort zone and into a wonderful learning and growth opportunity.
If you think someone you know may be experiencing domestic abuse, there are lots of ways they can get help. Check out www.leewaysupport.org to find out what support is available in Norfolk and Suffolk, or call them on 0300 561 0077.
Many domestic violence victims find it hard to leave – they may be frightened, they may not have anywhere to go, perhaps they have no money or means of support. But there is professional support available out there for everyone – men, women and children.
2 women in the UK are killed every week by a partner or ex-partner, making domestic abuse the largest cause of death worldwide in women aged 19-44 – greater than war, cancer or motor vehicle accidents.
Norfolk Police receive over 30,000 calls every year relating to domestic violence. Domestic violence is illegal and can result in prison sentences for the perpetrator.
Domestic abuse isn’t just about physical violence. It can include emotional and psychological damage as well – such as name-calling, threats and bullying. No-one deserves to be mistreated in any way by a member of their household.
Domestic violence affects 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men in their lifetime. You might see signs like bruising or someone wearing long sleeves in hot weather to cover up the bruises. Look out for friends who cut off relationships because their partner has told them to.