Film shows how to nurture positive relationships

Barnardo’s and Public Health Scotland 20 May will launch a new film for everyone involved in educating children and young people today.

It’s All About Relationships highlights practical examples and tips that education staff can build into their everyday practice to support positive relationships with young people.

The charity said as relationships between staff and pupils will be even more important as considerations are made about when to reopen schools following the Covid-19 lockdown, now more than ever, education environments which are relational and trauma-sensitive will be crucial.

Martin Crewe, director of Barnardo’s Scotland, said the focus must be on emotional support to enable children to cope with the present challenges and build their resilience for the future.

“So, although this film was developed before the Covid-19 pandemic, it is now more relevant than ever,” he stressed. “This crisis is impacting on the mental health and wellbeing of our entire population; we are seeing high levels of individual and community trauma. It is imperative that when children return to school we prioritise their mental health and emotional wellbeing.

“There has been fantastic work going on in schools across Scotland prior to the pandemic to place relationships at the heart of children’s educational experiences. When children and young people return to school this will be even more vital. We hope this film will support and encourage good practice and help all those working in Education to think about how strong, positive relationships can support good mental health in our children and young people.”

Deputy first minister John Swinney added: “ Barnardo’s Scotland and Public Health Scotland believe good quality relationships are vital for wellbeing, growth and health; especially when a child has experienced adversity or trauma. Education staff have the power to create and foster a culture of warmth, nurture, kindness and positive relationships within their environments.

‘It’s All About Relationships: Embedding relational, trauma sensitive approaches in education settings’ originated when Barnardo’s Scotland staff working in schools notice that those working in Education were becoming more aware of the impact of childhood adversity and trauma through training and awareness raising, but many were looking for practical advice about how to bring this to life in their everyday practice.”

The film will be screened during an online Webinar on 20 May at 3pm with a panel of guest speakers including trainer and author Lisa Cherry.

The film will be available to view online at 4pm on Barnardo’s You Tube Channel and on Public Health Scotland's site