Esme was referred to Key’s Prevention Service as her school attendance continued to decline. The family were under significant pressure, facing potential fines, and relationships with school had become strained. Esme had experienced a traumatic assault in early childhood and had never received therapeutic support. This unresolved trauma contributed to anxiety, emotional distress and persistent school avoidance.
At home, relationships were breaking down. Conflict between Esme and her mum had escalated, Esme’s father was in prison, and her mum had left work to care for her as she could not be left alone during the school day. Financial pressures increased, particularly over the winter months, leaving the family feeling isolated and overwhelmed. With GCSEs approaching and a transition into Year 10 ahead, timely intervention was essential. The school referred the family to Key for intensive support to address attendance, emotional wellbeing, relationship repair, and parenting strategies.
Key’s Prevention Team provided coordinated and multi-layered support. Esme began working with Key’s in-house Counselling Service to safely explore her trauma and anxiety. In partnership with school, a reduced timetable was introduced to support gradual reintegration, allowing Esme to rebuild confidence at a manageable pace. Mediation sessions helped repair communication between Esme and her mum, while structured planning and one-to-one parenting support strengthened stability at home. Practical assistance, including foodbank support, Household Support Fund vouchers and Christmas gifts, eased immediate financial strain so the family could focus on emotional recovery and progress.
Over ten months, significant change took place. Esme’s attendance rose from 34% to 93.8%. She successfully completed her mock exams and achieved a Distinction in Health and Social Care. Inspired by the professionals who supported her, she now hopes to become a Children’s Social Worker. Her mum has returned to employment, and the family report improved relationships, greater stability and renewed optimism for the future.
Mum reflected: “Mediation was the best thing to happen to us.”
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*Please note that names may have been changed and stock photography used to preserve the anonymity of this young person.
Photo by Olivia Hibbins on Unsplash