Cyberbullying

Online bullying – like bullying in the playground, street or home – can cause children misery. You should guide your child to always tell you if this is happening to them.

They must also be made aware that it’s wrong to text, write or post anything that deliberately offends, hurts or otherwise harms anyone else in any way, including someone they don’t like – or don’t know. Make them aware of how they would feel if they were on the other end of such behaviour. Bullying can also result in defamation, punishable by law.

If on a computer, keep a record of the bullying message by using the ‘Print Screen’ key on your keyboard. If on a mobile device, take a screenshot to record and report the incident.

Also … make sure your child knows they must guard their computer and mobile device with password or PINs so that even the most casual text message or email cannot be copied or hijacked and used to bully someone else in your child’s name.

Cyberbullying helplines

Tithandizane National Child Helpline

A 24-hour toll-free child helpline that provides immediate support and assistance to children in distress or facing any kind of abuse.

Call 116

www.yoneco.org

Youth Helpline 393

A toll-free youth helpline that provides free and confidential support, information, referrals, and guidance to young people.

Call 393

www.yoneco.org

Gender-Based Violence Crisis Line 5600

GBV Crisis 5600 is a 24-Hour Helpline service that provides counselling and support services for all Gender Based Violence related issues, including domestic violence, child marriages, forced child marriages, legal support services, referrals, and human trafficking.

Call 5600

www.yoneco.org

Lifeline Malawi/ANPPCAN Malawi Chapter

Lifeline Malawi/ANPPCAN Malawi Chapter provides free and confidential support by phone.

Call +265 999 399 765

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