Emotionally-based school avoidance (EBSA) describes reduced or non-attendance at school by a child or young person due to emotional, mental health or wellbeing issues. As highlighted in the 2022 Attendance Audit by the Children’s Commissioner, supporting young people experiencing ESBA is a growing challenge. The report revealed that 1 in 4 children were persistently absent from school in autumn 2021, a significant increase from the 2018/2019 academic year.
The SfYP St Albans and Dacorum Team and Delivering Special Provision Locally groups (DSPL 7 and 8) have set up these sessions at the Hemel Hempstead Young People's Centre to support parents and carers of young people in Years 7 to 11. Providing an informal environment, the free events also enable the families to connect and help each other improve the confidence and resilience of their young people. The young people are also welcome to attend to talk to SfYP Youth Workers and Advisers and use the facilities at the young people's centre.
The next sessions will be happening on:
- 25th January 2024
- 21st March 2024
- 7th May 2024
Support for home educated young people
SfYP offers ongoing youthwork projects specifically designed to address the unique needs of home educated young people, including those who are experiencing emotionally-based school avoidance. The projects are welcoming and inclusive, providing the opportunity for young people to socialise and get support, learn skills for managing their emotional wellbeing, resilience, confidence, teamwork skills and goal-setting for the future.
Young people can also drop into to SfYP young people's centres where qualified Advisers and Youth Workers provide information, advice and support on a range of subjects.
Find out more about how SfYP supports home educated young people.
Parents, carers, and professionals working with young people can refer a young person to SfYP by completing the referral form.
