Faisal had just started secondary school when he started to be bullied by other students.
The bullying included Faisal and some of his friends being targeted with racial abuse and being called ‘terrorist’
The bullying had a huge impact on Faisal; he lost his confidence and had trouble sleeping. He did not want to go back to school. There was also an impact on his family and on his wider community, who were worried about Faisal and the behaviour he had been subjected to.
Faisal’s family reported the bullying to the school and to the police. The school isolated and suspended
The bullying had a huge impact on Faisal; he lost his confidence and had trouble sleeping
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a number of the responsible students. One of the students was interviewed by the police. Faisal and his family were referred to a local Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) support group who offered emotional support to them. This support group also worked with the local youth service to arrange one-to-one boxing training for Faisal that helped develop his confidence.
Dealing with hate and supporting those victimised by it is the responsibility of many different agencies and organisations in Essex. In Faisal’s case a specialised support group was able to give emotional support and arrange positive activities that helped Faisal and his family.
For more information on support in your area search this site for local organisations, or contact Victim Support for emotional and practical support on 0300 303 0165.