Social media

Experiencing harm on social media? 

Social media apps like Snapchat and WhatsApp are great for staying connected, but unfortunately, they can also be used for bullying, harassment, discrimination and other harmful behaviours. If you are the target of any of these, you can tell us on this platform, and there’s a lot of support you can get. We know that online harmful behaviour can be just as damaging as harmful behaviour that happens in person. 

If you feel harmed by something you see online, you can report it using this platform [insert link to platform].

Recognising the signs

Online bullying and harassment can take many forms, including:

• Repeatedly receiving hurtful, threatening or abusive messages
• Being deliberately excluded from group chats or online spaces
• Someone spreading false rumours or sharing private information about you or others
• Discriminatory language or behaviour targeting someone’s race, gender, sexuality, disability, or other personal characteristics
• Sharing of harmful or inappropriate content- this may not have to be targeted at an individual

Looking after your wellbeing

Experiencing online abuse can be distressing. Take regular breaks from social media, talk to trusted friends or family, and focus on self-care. Before the situation escalates, you can report and access support.

You deserve to feel safe both online and offline. By taking action and reaching out for support, you can regain control and ensure a more positive digital experience for yourself and others.

How to protect yourself

• Do Not Engage: Responding to bullies often encourages further abuse. Instead, stay calm and avoid responding.
• Gather Evidence: Take screenshots of offensive messages or harmful interactions as proof if you need to report them.
• Block and Report: Most chat apps allow you to block users and report abusive content. Use these tools to stop unwanted contact. If in a private chat group, report to the group admin and ask them to enforce guidelines for posting if they don’t have them already.

Reporting and Seeking Support

Report + Support provides you with the ability to report incidents confidentially.

You can choose to:

• Report anonymously or with your contact details
• Access guidance on the next steps, including formally reporting
• Request further support, such as counselling or safety planning

External Support

In the UK, several organisations and helplines provide support to students and employees experiencing digital harms such as online bullying, harassment, or discrimination. Here are some key resources:

For Anyone Experiencing Digital Harms

1. Samaritans – 24/7 emotional support for anyone struggling. Helpline: 116 123
2. Mind – Mental health charity offering support for those impacted by online abuse. Helpline: 0300 123 3393
3. Report Harmful Content – Helps report and remove harmful online content, including cyberbullying.
4. National Bullying Helpline – Offers guidance on online bullying and harassment. Helpline: 0300 323 0169

If someone is experiencing serious threats or harassment, they should also report it to the police (999 in emergencies, 101 for non-emergencies).

If you are the target of stalking online you can contact the national stalking helpline on 0808 802 0300. The Helpline is open: 09:30 - 20:00, Monday and Wednesday and 09:30 - 16:00, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday.

For Students

1. Student Minds – Mental health support for students, including advice on online harassment.
2. The Mix – Free, confidential support for under-25s on any issue, including cyberbullying and digital safety. Helpline: 0808 808 4994 or use their crisis messenger

For Staff

1. Acas (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) – Provides free advice on workplace harassment, including online abuse. Helpline: 0300 123 1100
2. Equality Advisory Support Service (EASS) – Offers advice on discrimination at work. Helpline: 0808 800 0082

Protect (Whistleblowing Advice) – Supports employees facing retaliation for reporting harmful workplace behaviour.