Domestic abuse organisations saw increased household tensions and domestic abuse during lockdown because of forced coexistence, economic stress and fears about the virus.
Increased isolation can create an escalation in abuse, where people who are living with an abusive partner or family member may be less likely to ask for help. Fewer visitors mean that evidence of physical abuse could go unnoticed. Children and young people living in these circumstances could disclose some of these experiences when coming back to school.
It is vital that schools are best supported to provide trauma informed/strength based care to students who need it the most. Solace Women’s Aid Early Intervention and Prevention team can support your students by offering:
- Wellbeing/advocacy support to individual young people impacted by any type of abuse (virtually or in person). Please see Solace’s leaflet and referral form.
- Solace
- Solace early intervention referral form
- Group work focusing on emotional well-being and resilience to students or staff members (virtual or in person).
- Group work to understand healthy/unhealthy relationships and all forms of abuse – some young people might struggle to recognise or name their experiences.
- Staff training to spot the signs of abuse and trauma.
- Download free well-being learning journals for primary/secondary school students here (external link)
Solace Women’s Aid offers a flexible approach. For further information, please contact Sasa Onayngo, Service Manager Formal and Informal Education, CYP Service on 07500 115761 or email cypservice@solacewomensaid.org