Overview

The UK government estimates that as many as 300,000 children in England and Wales have at least one parent who abuses substances. Fear of criminalisation and stigma means many adults facing challenges with substance abuse don’t seek support to overcome addiction and associated challenges.

Children living in homes where substance abuse takes place are at risk of significant harm. Because the harm they’re being exposed to is concealed, it’s harder to identify at-risk students. School can be a safe haven for students living in homes where they’re at risk of experiencing hidden harm.

Understanding what it is and how it can impact children is the first step towards safeguarding at-risk students. By taking steps to support impacted children, you can help bring the harm they’re experiencing to light and prioritise their welfare.

Outline Learning Objectives:

• Recognise what hidden harm is and how to support impacted students, so you can meet the expectations laid out in KCSIE (Keeping Children Safe in Education)

Why should I take this course?

Everyone working with students needs to understand what hidden harm is. This course will walk you through it. It’ll also introduce you to ways to support children experiencing or at risk of being impacted by hidden harm.