Cyber Bullying
Cyberbullying is a term to describe any type on bullying that uses electronic communication devices to deliberately attack, threated or upset an individual. This can be done by and individual or a group of people and can be extremely harmful to the victim. cyberbullying can take place through the use of texts, emails, instant messaging, chat rooms, social media suites and online games, as well as many other mediums. Cyberbullying can include uploading embarrassing content of an individual and then mocking them publicly, or sending abusive emails, or creating fake online profiles to embarrass or belittle another person.
Unfortunately, cyber bullying is widespread on the internet, particularly amongst young people. A national survey conducted by the charity BullyingUK (part of Family Lives) found that 42% of people under 25 years old have felt unsafe online. With 56% of under 25s saying they had witnessed others having been bullied online.
Many victims of cyberbullying have reported to have also been bullied face to face, meaning that the bullying can feel inescapable. This is due to the fact cyberbullying can happen at any time of day and the bullies behaviour isn’t confined to work, school or social hours.
If you have become a victim of cyberbullying. Remember to gather evidence so it can be handed to the police and inform your support worker or social worker for support.
For further information:
How to deal with cyberbullying
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence refers to violent behaviour between current or former intimate partners – typically where one partner tries to exert power and control over the other, usually through fear. It can include physical, sexual, emotional, social, verbal, spiritual and economic abuse.
Spotting the signs
- Is your partner jealous and possessive?
- Are they charming one minute and abusive the next?
- Do they tell you what to wear, where to go, who to see?
- Do they constantly put you down?
- Do they play mind games and make you doubt your judgment?
- Do they control your money, or make sure you are dependent on them for everyday things?
- Do they pressure you to have sex when you don’t want to?
- Are you starting to walk on eggshells to avoid making them angry?
- Do they control your access to medicine, devices or care that you need?
- Do they monitor or track your movements or messages?
- Do they use anger and intimidation to frighten and control you?
If you are getting abused within Outward services, you can seek support from your support worker or social worker, as well as utilising the resources below:
How to access help with domestic abuse:
National Domestic Abuse Helpline (24 hours) 0808 2000 247
