racist Bullying

Anti-Bullying Network Information

What is racist bullying?

Racist violence, harassment and abuse are closely related to, and sometimes difficult to distinguish from, bullying. Racist bullying in schools can range from ill-considered remarks, which are not intended to be hurtful, to deliberate physical attacks causing serious injury. Racist bullying can be identified by the motivation of the bully, the language used, and/or by the fact that victims are singled out because of the colour of their skin, the way they talk, their ethnic grouping or by their religious or cultural practices.

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Is racist bullying a problem in schools?

Racist bullying in schools can be a problem in two ways:

Children who experience it have their education disrupted. They may be unable to concentrate on lessons because of feelings of fear or anger. Their self-confidence may be damaged and, as a result, they may never fulfil their potential.
Schools that ignore it, or deny its existence, give the wrong message to young people. The success of our multi-cultural society depends upon the children of today growing up to be be adults who are prepared to speak out against racism.

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Anti-Bullying Network

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This information sheet may be photocopied or reproduced for use within schools and other educational establishments providing the Anti-Bullying Network is credited.

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Monitoring and Recording

The Government has made it clear there is a requirement on schools to record and monitor racist incidents. Schools are required to provide an annual report to Governors and Governors, in turn, are required to report annually to the LEA. Separate advice will be issued on how to do this. The LEA has a duty to monitor and review incidents and to support schools where appropriate.

If your child has been the victim of racist or religious bullying or if you become aware of such bullying, report it!

If you live in the County: Incidents may be reported to Leicestershire County Council by telephone:
Tel: 0116 2658263

If you live within Leicester City: Incidents may be reported to the Racial Harassment Action Group (RHAG) at Leicester Racial Equality Council by telephone:
Tel: 0116 2999800

Incidents can also be reported on-line at:

www.leics.gov.uk/reporting_racist_incidents

If you require us to take further action it is essential that you provide us with your contact details. All information will be treated confidentially.

A monitoring form is for use by parents/ members of the public and schools staff, although teachers should have their own school racist incident form. The form can be filled in and posted back to:

Kam Sisodia
Racist incident monitoring Officer
Youth Justice and Safer Communities
G48 County Hall
Glenfield
Leicester
LE3 8RA

The Leicestershire County Council is not responsible for the content of external internet sites