02 April 2020

Fantastic example of work going on behind the scenes to adapt services

We're keen to recognise the work of the fabulous members of our educational psychology team now manning a dedicated phone line for parents/carers and professionals who would like to talk through any education or wellbeing concerns about a child or young person. 
 
The phone line is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9am to 3pm, as a new means to support families during this difficult time. 
 
Educational psychologist Ashley Mcdonald told us: "This isn't an easy time for anyone and it can be particularly difficult for young people with additional support needs or for those who experience difficulties with mental health to make sense of current circumstances, for parents and carers to cope and for school staff to adapt to supporting families from a distance. 
 
"It's early days but we're here to help and offer a listening ear."
 
You can get in touch by calling 01779 403721. If you would prefer for the team to call you back, please email eps@aberdeenshire.gov.uk with your name and number.
The team has also put together resources to support home-learning for pupils who speak English as an additional language. These can be accessed at:
https://asn-aberdeenshire.org/english-as-an-additional-language/
 
Director of Education and Children's Services Laurence Findlay added: "This is a fantastic example of the work going on behind the scenes, at speed, to adapt a vast number of services in response to the pandemic. I really am humbled by the lengths teams are going to to support families in challenging circumstances. Thank you and well done, everyone."