Childline reports rise in contacts about race and faith-based bullying

Date: 24th July 2017
Category: Non-discrimination, Bullying

Children as young as 9 are contacting Childline about race or faith-based bullying, according to the latest figures by the NSPCC.

The NSPCC have commented that it is not uncommon for Childline to see a spike in counselling sessions following some terror attacks. There have been more than 2,500 counselling sessions in the last 3 years about racial and faith-based bullying. Muslim, Jewish, Christian, Black and Sikh children were among those who have contacted Childline about the issue.

In some cases, young people told Childline that the constant abuse and negative stereotyping was so cruel that they had self-harmed, and many wished they could change who they are.

It's important for adults to be aware of such bullying as it can isolate a child, impact their emotional health and leave them feeling vulnerable and withdrawn.

Large numbers of children are turning to Childline for support. Some Muslim children said they endured:

- Constant name-calling;
- Jibes about so-called Islamic State;
- Threats of violence;
- Victimisation when wearing a hijab or headscarf.

Meanwhile, other young people described how the bullying, both inside and outside of school, made them feel isolated and withdrawn from society. In some cases, they were even skipping school just to escape it.

• Read about this on the NSPCC website