A new guide was launched yesterday to help schools, refuges and local authorities support children and young people affected by domestic violence. Safe Learning: How to support the educational needs of children and young people affected by domestic violence was written by Save the Children UK in cooperation with Women's Aid.

The publication looks at how domestic violence affects children and young people and gives an overview of the relevant legislation and schools’ statutory responsibilities. Detailed guidance is included for schools on developing strategies to support these vulnerable children by:

raising awareness and understanding of domestic violence amongst teachers and pupils
identifying children and young people affected by domestic violence
ensuring children’s safety
integrating children who arrive at short notice to escape abuse.

Examples of best practice are included, along with a list of useful organisations and resources.

The guide will be of interest to education professionals, particularly headteachers and child protection co-ordinators in schools and local authorities, and staff in domestic violence organisations. It is a priced publication. [Source: CRIN]

For more information, contact:
Sophie Elmhirst, Save the Children UK
1 St. John's Lane, London, EC1M 4AR, UK
Tel: +44 (0) 207 012 6841
Email: supporter.care@savethechildren.org.uk 
Website: http://www.savethechildren.org.uk

More information

CRIN's thematic page on children and domestic violence [http://www.crin.org/violence/search/results.asp?formviolence=1014]