We are deeply saddened by the passing of Professor Peter Smith, Chair of the Anti-Bullying Alliance (ABA). Peter was not only a world-leading expert in the field of bullying and child development, but also a much-loved colleague, mentor, and friend to so many in our sector.
Peter had an extraordinary impact on the field of anti-bullying research over several decades. His work helped shape what we know about bullying today, how it happens, what impact it has, and what can be done to prevent it. He had an incredible ability to translate complex academic findings into clear, accessible guidance that helped improve the lives of children and young people. His book The Psychology of School Bullying is just one powerful example of this, bringing together research from around the world in a way that’s both readable and practical. He also conducted a thorough review of the effectiveness of anti-bullying interventions for government in 2013 which led the way of our understanding of the most appropriate approaches.
In recent years, Peter has He has been supporting evaluation of our whole-school programmes, United Against Bullying and Belonging Matters, alongside his exceptional team. Since 2017, Peter has undertaken an annual roundup of the latest academic research into bullying in the UK for ABA, our ‘Focus on Bullying’ reports.
As Chair of ABA since July 2024, Peter played a vital role in steering our work, championing evidence-based approaches and encouraging collaboration across research, policy, and practice.
Peter's contribution to ABA and to the wider anti-bullying field is impossible to sum up in words. He recently spoke at our parliamentary event during Anti-Bullying Week in November 2024, and called for more teacher training and a duty to record bullying in schools in England. We will miss him enormously, not just for his expertise, but for his warmth, generosity, and unwavering commitment to making a difference for children.
We send our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all those in the anti-bullying sector who have been inspired and influenced by his work.
Martha Evans – Director of the Anti-Bullying Alliance