BULLYING is the number one concern for parents as the schools go back, according to a poll by Action for Children Scotland.

The survey of 1,000 families across Scotland also highlighted parental worries about children’s emotional wellbeing, the cost of school uniform and simply getting kids back into the school routine.

Families revealed that they would benefit from one-to-one support to help with issues, and more availability of after school clubs and classes.

The charity is using the survey results to highlight the need for parents to talk to their children regularly, monitor use of social media and build family time into busy lives, when young people and children are more likely to engage and open up about their problems.

Paul Carberry, director of Action for Children Scotland, said: “We want starting the new school year to be a positive, exciting time for children and their parents.

“Our staff are on hand to provide practical and emotional support to help with the transition back to school, recognising the range of challenges that some families face.

“This includes bringing parents and teachers together to resolve difficulties jointly and at an early stage.”