Parental Separation

Children struggling with their parents’ separation benefit from agencies (such as their rural school, children’s centre, and families and schools together team) and their parents working together to support them.

Starting point and evidence of need

A 4-year-old child in reception class in a rural school required some support following the separation of their parents. The child seemed to be very angry, not enjoying or achieving at school or interacting with peers.

Work undertaken

A new outreach worker could not take the case alone as they hadn’t completed all the core training. They shadowed the Families and Schools Together Team (F.A.S.T), who were also called in by the school, during meetings with the class teacher, a meeting with the headteacher and parents and two home visits.

The outreach worker recommended the parenting course at the local children’s centre. The F.A.S.T team set up a nurture group within the reception class at the school including this child and others with special needs. The outreach worker offered some playground support at lunchtimes for half a term to help the child interact with his peers.

Outcome

The parents attended the parenting course and now communicate more effectively. A F.A.S.T team member identified issues with the 11-year-old brother and began some work with him. Some playground issues were addressed and reported back to class teacher.

Why was it successful?

Links were created with the rural school, children’s centre and F.A.S.T and the parents worked together to benefit both children.

Next steps

The tutor from the parenting course will be contacted for a copy of feedback from parents. The primary school continues to support the child and F.A.S.T are continuing to support the older sibling.