Bullies call my grandson names and push him down stairs – he’s really struggling

DEAR DEIDRE: WHEN he’s at school, my grandson is given such a hard time.

There is one other pupil in particular who has it in for him, calling him names and deliberately tripping him up or pushing him into walls, lockers or even down stairs.

I am his 63-year-old grandad. My grandson is 13. He is a lovely kid but hates going into school now.

He is really struggling and finds concentrating for long periods of time difficult as he suffers from ADHD.

He spends most lunchtimes and breaks on his own which I find heartbreaking.

He has confided in me on many occasions as I see him regularly.

Our whole family have all tried talking to him, giving him advice and listening to him but we all feel quite helpless.

His school hasn’t been very helpful even though my daughter has been in to see his form tutor and head teacher a couple of times recently.

My daughter is considering changing schools. Perhaps somewhere smaller would help him. I hate seeing him like this.

DEIDRE SAYS: No grandparent wants to think of their grandchild being picked on.

All schools have to have a non-bullying policy, so the school must be given the chance to put it right.

That said, if they aren’t taking enough action, your daughter could also notify the school’s governors who are in place to hold the staff to account.

Moving schools is very disruptive and may not be the answer.

Taking your grandson to out-of-school activities which build on his strengths will help.

Please read my support pack on bullying for more support.

The National Attention Deficit Disorder Information and Support Service (addiss.org.uk) can help you understand your grandson’s behaviour.