02 April 2020

Helping young people navigate through COVID-19

One of our educational psychologists has put together a short video clip offering some supportive advice to parents supporting children to make sense of current circumstances. Have a watch and let us know what you think: https://www.facebook.com/AberdeenshireCouncil/videos/850336848808310/
 
We've also noticed a number of other online resources which may help children and young people navigate through this difficult time. 
 
NHS Grampian's Child and Adolescent Mental Health team is developing a series of podcasts to make managing stress in tough times just that little bit easier. These are aimed at young people, as well as their parents and a number of episodes are already available at: https://anchor.fm/camhs-g
 
Young Scot's dedicated campaign site is designed to help young people find out what's happening as well as what to do if you're feeling anxious and how you can support others. Visit: https://young.scot/campaigns/national/coronavirus
 
The Children and Young People’s Commissioner for Scotland site has some information about children’s rights in a time of crisis and a number of helpful links to resources: https://www.cypcs.org.uk/news/in-the-news/getting-human-rights-advice-in-scary-times-the-coronavirus
 
There's also a #Covibook to help children under 7 understand more about the virus available at: 
https://660919d3-b85b-43c3-a3ad-3de6a9d37099.filesusr.com/ugd/64c685_319c5acf38d34604b537ac9fae37fc80.pdf 
 
Childline have a dedicated Cornoavirus page which covers for young people what coronavirus is, what to do if you are worried and how to cope if you are staying at home:
https://www.childline.org.uk/info-advice/your-feelings/anxiety-stress-panic/worries-about-the-world/coronavirus/
 
In terms of child protection, it's even more important at this difficult time we look out for the most vulnerable in our communities. If you are worried that a child or a young person is at risk or you would like to ask for the support of a social worker, please phone 01467 537111 (9-5pm) or for out of hours emergency support phone 03456 08 12 06.

More details of your local social work teams are available on our website: https://www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/social-care-and-health/children-and-families/children-and-families-team-offices/