Bullying and violence reduction
Everyone feels safe from bullying and victimisation. Active and fair systems to prevent and respond to bullying and violence are known to staff, children and visitors.
19. Children, staff and visitors understand that bullying an intimidating behaviour are unacceptable and are aware of the consequences of such behaviour. Any form of intimidating or violent behaviour is consistently challenged and not condoned.
The following indicators describe evidence that may show this expectation being met, but do not exclude other ways of achieving it.
- Children feel safe. Levels of bullying and violence reduce over time.
- Staff promote positive and supportive relationships, identify and challenge problematic behaviour and model pro-social behaviour.
- There is an effective whistle-blowing procedure in place for staff and managers to raise concerns about bullying or violent behaviour within the workplace, including use of aggressive and intimidating language.
- The establishment has an effective evidence-based bullying and violence reduction strategy. This strategy is linked with other relevant strategies that protect children and is regularly reviewed.
- Incidents and indicators of violence and bullying are comprehensively monitored and regularly reviewed.
- Accurate records of violent incidents are overseen by a senior manager.
- Staff are trained to understand all forms of bullying and how to apply anti-bullying procedures.
- Allegations of bullying behaviour are treated consistently and fairly. They are investigated thoroughly and outcomes are recorded.
- Planned actions are aimed at achieving sustained and agreed changes in behaviour and include mediation and conflict resolution. As a result of such actions children are helped to understand the root-cause of their violent behaviour and develop alternative non-violent coping skills.
- Children who have been identified as displaying bullying or violent behaviour have individual plans that ensure they are supported to address their behaviour. The contents of plans are properly linked to any other existing plan involving that child.
Cross reference with: safeguarding of children; early days in custody; behaviour management; children, families and contact with the outside world.
20. Children at risk or who have been subject to bullying or victimisation are protected by staff from any further victimisation.
The following indicators describe evidence that may show this expectation being met, but do not exclude other ways of achieving it.
- Children feel confident to report bullying and it is easy and safe for them to do so without fear of further intimidation.
- Staff are aware of all forms of bullying and victimisation, including verbal abuse, theft, threats of violence and assault.
- Attention is given to identifying and protecting vulnerable children who may be victimised due to the nature of their offence or personal circumstances.
- The violence reduction strategy is explained to children during induction and they know where they can get help to report bullying and victimisation.
- Children do not share cells, unless they request it and it is in their best interests.
- Children are protected by cell sharing risk assessments which are regular, comprehensive and effectively monitored.
- Opportunities for bullying are minimised through a range of protective measures.
- Children who report bullying are protected from further intimidation or victimisation.
- Staff identify children who self-isolate and provide support to promote positive relationships, well-being and participation in the regime.
- Children’s families/carers and friends are able to report any concerns they have about bullying. A visitor’s survey asks about safety.
Cross reference with: relationships between staff and children; children, families and contact with the outside world; equality and diversity; early days in custody; safeguarding of children.