Supporting our children and young people experiencing racism, fear, and trauma

Recent volatile and distressing riots and protests in our cities and towns across the UK have raised anxiety and fear for many children and young people.

This is not something to be ignored. We need to ensure that our children and young people are offered support and reassurance through open conversation to reflect on what they are seeing and hearing - particularly within their friendship groups, family circles and on social media.

Part of a statement made by the British Association of Play Therapists (BAPT) reads:

“In a world where tragic events and civil unrest dominate the news and social media, it is essential to provide children and young people with the necessary support to navigate their fears and trauma. Exposure to distressing images and reports can have a profound impact on their emotional well-being, leading to feelings of anxiety, confusion, and helplessness.

There are a number of ways we can provide this support. For adults, in short, it is important to: 

• Take the time to listen to children and young people
• Reassure them that it is normal to feel scared or upset in response
• Direct their attentions to the positive actions of first responders, volunteers and community leaders
• Provide age-appropriate responses, striking a balance between honesty and protection
• Set boundaries around news consumption and social media use
• Engage in social activities together

In combination, these simple steps will help children and young people navigate and understand these experiences, their emotions and the world around them. 

When discussing racism in particular, the following resources may prove useful: 

• Talking about race and racism | Teaching resources (redcross.org.uk)
• Talking to children about racism | NSPCC
• Racism & Mental Health | Guide For Parents | YoungMinds

It is also important to consider professional help for children experiencing deeper signs of trauma. This will help them process their experiences in a safe and supported setting. 

Two organisations that can help are:

• Kooth: who provide online support and counselling for young people 
• Pause: who offer face-to-face drop-in sessions in Digbeth, Birmingham

At Birmingham Children's Trust, we offer our own Therapeutic and Emotional Support Service (TESS) for children in care and care leavers.

The TESS access point is available via phone 0121 675 5555 (9.30am to 12.30pm, Monday to Friday) or email tess.referrals@birminghamchildrenstrust.co.uk.