SAPS Brooklyn target school bullying, violence on Women’s month
“Some children become bullies because the copy the behaviour they see at home.”
Brooklyn police have visited several schools in the area recently to educate learners about bullying.
“It is important children learn from a young age that violence and abuse are not options to solve problems,” said spokesperson Captain Colette Weilbach.
Nuwe Hoop School in Ashlea Gardens and Infanti Care in Menlo Park were visited this week to raise awareness on personal safety, the role of the SAPS and bullying.
“It was explained to children that bullies normally exploit people who are different from themselves. They like to choose victims they think are unlikely to retaliate.”
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She said bullies often turn to this abusive behaviour as a way of dealing with their own problems and pain.
“In some cases, children turn to bullying because they copy behaviour they see at home. In some families there is a lot of anger, shouting and abusive behaviour.”
She said the aim of the campaign was to break the cycle of violence.
Advice was given on how to prevent bullying.
“Bullies thrive on the reaction they get.”
“Therefore, by walking away or ignoring the actions a message is send that the victim cannot be bothered.”
“Getting angry or fighting back will not solve the problem and will probably make it worse. It is important to report the bullying to a trusted adult.”
“If needed that adult can intervene to stop the bulling and to ensure everybody’s safety.
She said bystanders are also requested not to turn a blind eye when they observe bullying.
“They need to take action by speaking out and to report it to a teacher.”
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She added that all police stations had victim empowerment/trauma support programmes available.
“At the Brooklyn police station this voluntary service is rendered by the Monami Trauma Troops and other professional volunteers. ‘Mon Ami’ is French for ‘my friend.’”
“These trained volunteers provide emotional assistance to people affected by trauma. This includes trauma caused by bullying or domestic violence and abuse.”
She said the troops are not counsellors, but are “a friend in need” who can lend a listening ear during a traumatic period.
This support service is free of any cost.
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