Bullying calls on the increase, says Kidsline

Media release from Lifeline Auckland

Bullying calls on the increase, says Kidsline

Kidsline has seen an 11% increase in calls from under 14’s because of bullying, and an increase of 87% in calls relating to electronic bullying, says Lifeline Aotearoa CEO, Jo Denvir.

The nationwide confidential helpline receives thousands of calls each year across a range of issues, but bullying is the leading reason children call. “Bullying is so prevalent we track calls using a range of categories, including bullying in school, bullying outside of school, and electronic bullying,” says Ms Denvir. “We also track calls which are prompted by ‘friendship difficulties’, and this can often be a euphemism for emotional bullying, particularly for girls.”

The impact of bullying can vary widely from child to child, says Ms Denvir. “Some children just need support and reassurance that yes, the behaviour they are experiencing is bullying, and then they approach either a parent or teacher for help. In other situations the bullying is so severe that children contemplate suicide. These are obviously very distressing calls.”

Lifeline is currently working with schools to introduce the world-leading ASIST and safeTALK suicide prevention education programmes to teachers. “We strongly believe all teachers should go through the half day safeTALK programme, which teaches people how to provide practical help to those with thoughts of suicide. It’s only a few hours out of a day, and the skills it teaches can honestly be life-saving.”

ENDS

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