Many children may not recognise abusive behaviours or understand the consequences of their actions. By educating children, they will be better equipped to recognise potential abusers and to speak up if they or someone they know is being abused. Schools can provide support for both the child displaying the behaviour and child impacted (as well as bystanders), ensuring that they receive the help and guidance they need to move forward. Ultimately, educating young people about child-on-child abuse can help create a safe and supportive environment for all students.
In the most recent update of the statutory guidance Keeping Children Safe in Education, child-on-child abuse has replaced what was previously referred to as 'peer-on-peer' abuse. This change in discourse is first noted on page 7, paragraph 13 'What school and college staff need to know':
'Child protection policy (which amongst other things also include the policy and procedures to deal with child-on-child abuse)'
And later on page 12, paragraph 32:
'32. All staff should be aware that children can abuse other children (often referred to as child-on-child abuse), and that it can happen both inside and outside of school or college and online. All staff should be clear as to the school’s or college’s policy and procedures with regard to child-on-child abuse and the important role they have to play in preventing it and responding where they believe a child may be at risk from it.
33. All staff should understand that even if there are no reports in their schools or colleges it does not mean it is not happening, it may be the case that it is just not being reported. As such it is important if staff have any concerns regarding child-on-child abuse they should speak to their designated safeguarding lead (or deputy).
34. It is essential that all staff understand the importance of challenging inappropriate behaviours between children, many of which are listed below, that are abusive in nature. Downplaying certain behaviours, for example dismissing sexual harassment as “just banter”, “just having a laugh”, “part of growing up” or “boys being boys” can lead to a culture of unacceptable behaviours, an unsafe environment for children and in worst case scenarios a culture that normalises abuse leading to children accepting it as normal and not coming forward to report it.
35. Child-on-child abuse is most likely to include, but may not be limited to:
