Key barriers to reporting
Ofsted's review of sexual abuse in schools found a number of reasons why pupils weren't reporting experiences of sexism and sexual harassment. These reasons include how pupils:
- Don't see the point in reporting 'lower level' incidents because they're commonplace
- Are worried the next steps would be out of their control
- Think they wouldn't be believed or that they’d be blamed, so don't feel confident asking for support
- Are concerned they'd be ostracised by their peers or branded a 'snitch' for getting someone into trouble
For further details on the findings of the review, take a look at our summary article.
Below you'll find guidance on the steps you can take to break down these barriers to reporting, creating a culture where all pupils feel comfortable raising any concerns.
To encourage pupils to report 'lower level' incidents, such as sexist name-calling or being sent unwanted explicit pictures or videos,