Informal action

Whilst recognising that formal action may be required to put a stop to bullying, ATL prefers to pursue an informal resolution of disputes if at all possible.

This is because you and the person whose behaviour is of concern may continue working together. An informal resolution in these circumstances makes sense. Your colleague may be unaware of the implications of  his/her behaviour and, once informed, will adjust his/her conduct accordingly. 

There may be a breakdown in communication, which an informal discussion can resolve. This might be with the assistance of a colleague within the school or with the help of an ATL official. Certainly you should be allowed to have the support of a school colleague or ATL representative at any discussion or meeting, whether formal or informal. 

You should keep a private written record of bullying incidents as they occur, noting as objectively as you can the basic facts and circumstances, including time and date. This record, which you should keep at home, could be useful later should you decide to take formal action against the perpetrator. If there have been adult witnesses to such incidents, consider asking if they would be willing to record their observations of events; they may also be willing to appear as witnesses at any formal hearing. 

If you feel able to speak directly to the person who is bullying you, state that her or his behaviour is unhelpful, and ask for it to stop immediately. It may be appropriate to add that, if the bullying persists, you will have no alternative but to register a formal complaint. Try to do this in a quiet, non-confrontational manner; being assertive but not aggressive. 

If you are a member, do not hesitate to contact your ATL rep, branch secretary, or ATL's London, Cardiff or Belfast office for a confidential discussion and advice if you feel uncertain about talking to a colleague in your school. 

If you prefer not to speak directly to the bully, you could express your views in writing. Keep a copy of your letter.

Help and support

For further advice on this issue, ATL members can speak to their school rep, their branch secretary or their regional official. They can also call the London (020 7930 6441), Cardiff (029 2046 5000), Belfast (028 9078 2020) or Edinburgh (0131 272 2748) offices or email info@atl.org.uk

For out of hours enquiries, call the out of office hours helpline on 020 7782 1612 (Monday-Friday, 5-8pm during term time).

If you are not a member, join now.