You know that rumours are being spread by one schoolgirl about another. You know that the first girl has convinced her own parents about the truth of the rumours, and that they have joined in the character assassination of the second girl. What if anything do you say to the parents of the 'victim' of the rumours, since you have no concrete proof that the rumours are happening?

You need witnesses. You can't approach anyone on such a sensitive issue without some back up evidence. Find who shes been saying this to. You could also try the heavy handed approach; this behaviour can actually be classified as assault so is potentially a Police matter - if only for the shock tactics. Have a word with your community copper if you've got one.

The thing is, I am a witness myself, in that the father has slated this girl to me....the thing is it could be represented as just another altercation, except that this guy is (believe it or not) a retired schoolteacher and therefore might be using his influence etc etc.

Then he should know better. Are the allegations true ?

send the boys round tooled up with hammers. That usually sorts it.
Tell them not to forget their balaclavas, and park the van round the corner.

Hi Grabec, good to see you back on here.
This is a form of bullying that needs to be reported to the relevant authorities, be that police, social services or education.

Thanks, Mr H

I think you're right and someone in authorityshould be told...it's just that it's the girl's parents, I feel, who would have to decide whether to take action. I suppose I'll have to tell them

The girl herself can make a complaint / take action.

The NSPCC have a child protection helpline 0808 800 5000

Bullying UK http://www.bullying.co.uk/young_people/index.aspx has something about rumour spreading.

Hope this may help.