Here are some suggestions on how to make this happen.
Schools and communities can support this group by taking part in the Month of the Military Child.
Come along to our free roadshow events in Helensburgh (Mon 29 April) and Leuchars (Wed 01 May) to learn more about the unique experiences of children from armed forces communities, our projects and services, and much more. Most importantly, have some fun, network, and possibly win a prize too.
We encourage professionals who work with children and young people to download Month of the Military Child Celebration pack.
This pack is designed to engage to celebrate the lives of children and young people in armed forces and veteran families. There is a variety of activities that can be done with children and young people to talk about this group and learn more about their unique lives, including the challenges and positives.
Professionals can learn more about life for children and young people in armed forces and veteran families to be better informed to support them.
Through our Learning Offer, schools can request our free CPD approved training on a variety of topics such as Deployment, Mobile Lives and even Children’s Rights.
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Children and young people from armed forces communities have told us that schools could do more to support them. One of their solutions is to produce a whole school approach to support and inclusion.
These approaches must be coproduced with children and young people to align with Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). If children and young people are not at the centre of these discussions and plans, they will not be effective in the long run.
This approach must detail how staff can support children and young people during events that may have an impact on them such as a deployment or upcoming move. Initiatives can include implementing deployment passes so those with a deployed parent can take some time out for their wellbeing if needed without having to explain to every teacher.
Local Authorities can also play a role in welcoming young people into their area when they are entering civilian life by creating a Welcome Pack. This pack will help children and young people to explore civilian life and see what is available in their local community.
It is important that these children and young people feel comfortable in the civilian world and know what support is available in their local community. These packs must be co-produced with young people as they will be using this pack.
Forces Children Scotland’s Your Mind Matters Hub was co-created with and for children and young people for armed forces communities to provide information, advice and downloadable resources to help enhance mental health and wellbeing.
The resources cover a variety of topics, from anxiety, ADHD, and Bipolar o getting a good night sleep and much more, so we would encourage educators and professionals to refer children and young people from armed forces communities to visit our Your Mind Matters Hub.
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Ultimately, this group of children and young people have the right to be heard about their unique experiences. Schools must listen to them when they request further support or potentially just want a shared space with others who understand their experience.
There are many ways communities can support this group of children and young people. If you are looking for more ideas, please contact Forces Children Scotland and we would be happy to talk with you!
Contact usLearn more about the lived experience of children and young people from armed forces communities.
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