Keep offensive texts as evidence rather than deleting them. You can also try switching off messaging for a few days, which may put the bully off contacting you, by following instructions at the website: www.wiredsafety.org.uk

By telephone

Do not hang up if you receive abusive or silent calls - instead put your phone down and walk away for a few minutes to show that you are not rattled. You can use “caller display” to vet callers and divert those you do not recognise to voicemail.

By email or website

Schools can install electronic systems to monitor pupils’ work on computers, such as Securus, which is used by more than 700 schools in the UK. It costs about pound;2,000 a year and stores screen shots and records details whenever pupils type in threatening or racist phrases, even if they are using word processing programmes. More tips available at www.dfes.gov.ukbullying