A new film encouraging families in Edinburgh to access support and advice has been launched today (Wednesday, March 29) as part of a campaign run by NSPCC Scotland and the city’s Child Protection Committee.
The All of Us campaign, set up over two years ago, has involved organisations across the city working in partnership, including Edinburgh Voluntary Organisations Council, Stepping Stones North Edinburgh and Dads Rock, to highlight the different kinds of support available for families through events and workshops.
The film features two first-time mums who talk about the support they have received from Stepping Stones North Edinburgh and a father who says Dads Rock has helped him become ‘a more confident father’.
As well as helping parents and carers get support and advice, the campaign lets people know where to turn if they have concerns about a child. It also raises awareness among communities and professionals about the early signs of child neglect and how to help families who are struggling.
About one third of calls made to the NSPCC Helpline are from people concerned a child might be experiencing neglect, which is when a young person’s basic needs are not being met. This includes the child not having warm, clean clothing; enough to eat or drink; receiving love and care; access to healthcare; and support with education.
Neglect can happen due to a variety of issues, including parents not having support, funds or skills, and having poor mental health.
Carla Malseed, NSPCC Scotland local campaigns manager, said: “We know that taking care of children isn’t always easy and we all need help from time to time.
“Parents might be struggling due to money, health issues or a whole range of factors outside their control and there’s help available across the city.
“The NSPCC Helpline is also there for anyone who wants advice or knows a family that needs support. It takes All of Us to raise happy, healthy children.”
A 25-year-old first-time mum, Shannon Borthwick, who attends Stepping Stones North Edinburgh – a charity that supports young parent families, said: “I don’t have the words to describe how much Stepping Stones has helped me, it’s just changed me as a person, it’s been so good for me.
“They’ve offered me such amazing opportunities. I’m incredibly grateful for all their help and support and I’m definitely finding parenting is easier since I reached out to them.”
24-year-old Marcia Cruz, who is also supported by the charity, added: “I’m also a first-time mum and I experience anxiety sometimes. There are times when it’s very difficult to know why your child behaves in a certain way.
“Having other people to talk with about things really helps and makes me feel much better. You realise you’re not the only person who feels a certain way and other mums are having similar experiences.”
Thomas Lynch, service manager at Dads Rock, said: “Parents really just appreciate having someone else to speak to and knowing they’re not alone and that other people are going through similar stuff.
“Nobody knows everything and it’s good to get a bit of information and support when you need it. I think people need to ask for help as soon as possible.”
Mark Cooper, a dad who has been supported by Dads Rock, said: “In the midst of a baby screaming that can be highly stressful.
“The support has helped me to become a more confident father because I know I’m not alone.”
Amanda Hatton, Chair of the Edinburgh Child Protection Committee, said:“The All of Us campaign has been successful in highlighting the very real issues around child neglect and the Edinburgh Child Protection Committee has been working with NSPCC Scotland to raise awareness.
“The holiday period can be a challenging time for families so it’s important that everyone is aware of the wide range of support available here in Edinburgh. The ongoing cost of living crisis has put even more pressures on families, and I would urge people to continue to seek support.”
The film was launched at 10am this morning: Wednesday, March 29.
For parenting advice and support visit NSPCC helpline or call 0808 800 5000, weekdays 8am to 10pm and weekends 9am to 6pm. People can also contact Social Care Direct on 0131 200 2324, their health visitor, GP or child’s school. If you’re concerned that a child is in immediate danger phone 999.
To find out more about the campaign visit: www.edinburgh.gov.uk/allofus
For further support and advice visit: www.edinburgh.gov.uk/support-families
To watch the video visit: NSPCC All of Us – YouTube
It takes ‘ALL OF US’ to raise happy, healthy children.
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