Appearance-related bullying is bullying that targets an aspect of a person's appearance. For example, they could be bullied for their size, height or disfigurement. 

It can be often linked with other types of bullying such as racist bullying, disablist bullying, sexist bullying and bullying of LGBT children. It is often thought of as the most common reason for children experiencing bullying. 

The Equality Act 2010 introduced a pubic sector equality duty.  All schools must have due regard to the need to:

• eliminate discrimination, harassment, victimisation and any other conduct that is prohibited under the Act. 
• Advance equality of opportunity between persons who share a relevant protected characteristic and persons who do not share it. 
• foster good relations between persons who share a relevant protected characteristic and persons who do not share it. 

This duty covers the protected characteristics which includes appearance-related characteristics. Schools must act if they are aware of the use of discriminatory language or language which targets pupils or school staff because of their protected characteristics.  More information is found in the Equality and Human Rights Commission guidance: 

If you have any concerns that a child at our school with appearance-related protective characteristics is at risk of bullying, please complete the form below:

The links below will help families with this protective characteristic: