Wendy Chambers, a mum from Glasgow, has opened up about her struggles with grief that led to suicidal thoughts before receiving free bereavement support she says saved her life.
Wendy has bravely shared a video detailing her experience in the hope it will help others struggling to cope with the death of a loved one by reaching out to Cruse Scotland, the bereavement support charity she turned to for help that âpulled her from a very, very dark place.â
In the video, shared across the charityâs social media accounts, Wendy opens up about how she suffered the loss of both parents just 10 weeks apart during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
Her way of coping was to make herself so incredibly busy; helping others, working extra hours, and studying for a Masterâs degree – to ultimately avoid her grief. After two years, however, the pain and unresolved grief had built up so much, it almost cost the mum her own life.
Wendy said:Â âMy days were literally full from morning âtil night and I didnât have any time to think. That coping mechanism lasted until August 2022, when my life and my head were so busy that I planned to take my own life.
“Thatâs when I contacted Cruse Scotland, and they provided me with face-to-face counselling support.â
Wendy has chosen to share her story now as she knows Christmas is a time when loss is felt particularly acutely and wants to raise awareness of the bereavement support available to others who may be going through a similar, painful experience. Wendy also hopes to inspire others to donate to the charity to keep the vital services free and accessible for all who may need them.
In a written blog she also has published on the charityâs website, Wendy recalled how tough that first Christmas without her parents was:
âI remember standing in a queue with a basket full of gifts for my daughter, Mia, when I noticed a box of my Mum’s favourite chocolates – Walnut Whips.
My first instinct was to grab a box as a stocking filler, and as I reached out my hand, that pain of loss swept over me once again and I just crumbled right there in the queue, sobbing loudly, tears streaming down my face, the folk around me just staring not sure what to say or do.â
Fiona Arnott-Barron, CEO of Cruse Scotland, said: âWendyâs story is really alarming â a vibrant woman who was so overwhelmed by her grief that she considered suicide.â
âMore alarming however, is that Wendyâs story is not unique. Sadly in Cruse Scotland, we hear stories like hers every single day. Our Helpline is there to listen and support people who are so devastated by the death of someone close that they cannot imagine continuing without them.
âThis vital support can only be given to children, young people and adults in Scotland if we have the funds to provide this service for everyone who needs us. If we cannot raise enough funds, then the harsh reality is people like Wendy may not be able to get the support they need. And so, this Christmas we are asking;Â Will you be a life saver?â
The charity say that even a donation of ÂŁ10 can save a life â as that covers the cost of a one-hour call to their bereavement Helpline from someone who is in desperate need of support, just like Wendy was.
Wendy added;Â âCruse Scotland pulled me from a very, very dark place and saved me from myself, and for that I will always be grateful.â
If you need support with your grief, to hear Wendyâs story, or if you are in a position to donate to Cruse Scotland this Christmas, visit www.crusescotland.org.uk/christmas
The NSPCC Helpline fielded almost 4,000 contacts about concerns for children experiencing domestic abuse in the first six months of 24/25.
There has been a 19% increase about the issue compared to the same period in 23/24.
Coercive or controlling behaviour, emotional domestic abuse and post-separation domestic abuse were concerns repeatedly raised in contacts the adult helpline received about domestic abuse.
Childline is reminding all children that the service is ready to support them if they have concerns about domestic abuse, or any other issues, this festive season.
The NSPCC is dealing with an increase in contacts to its Helpline from adults with concerns about children who are experiencing domestic abuse.
In the first six months of 2024/25, the charity received 3,879 contacts relating to the issue, a 19% rise compared to the previous year.
A deeper dive into the domestic abuse data reveals mentions of coercive or controlling behaviour (1,279 contacts) and emotional domestic abuse (1,451) increased by a half, while post-separation domestic abuse more than doubled.
A 12-year-old girl from Scotland told a Childline counsellor:Â âI canât handle living around my dad; he puts us all on edge. You never know what heâs going to do next or over what.
âMum thought sheâd lost her phone weeks ago, but really dad hid it to punish her. Mum doesnât even argue back anymore, itâs like heâs made her give up.â
Children are also directly contacting the charity about this issue, with Childline delivering over 500 counselling sessions on domestic abuse in the same 6-month period.
As we move towards Christmas and into the winter months, the concern now is that these numbers will continue to rise with longer, darker nights seeing children spending more time at home and having several weeks away from school over the festive period.
In response, the NSPCC is launching its annual Christmas campaign designed to remind young people that Childline is available throughout the festive season to support on all concerns, including domestic abuse.
Sadly, there will be thousands of children this Christmas across the UK in search of free and confidential help for a range of worries and concerns. These include how to stay safe from abuse and about feeling completely alone. This Christmas, Childline is ready for every call and contact throughout the festive period.
In the charityâs Christmas TV advert, a young girl who has been neglected during the festive period contacts Childline for help. She speaks to a trained counsellor who listens to what is happening to her and provides support.
The issue can still persist after a relationship is over. An adult in Scotland who had concerns for a relativeâs safety in a domestic abuse setting told the NSPCC Helpline that they saw signs of controlling behaviour after a relationship had ended.
They said: âMy sister recently left an abusive situation with her six-month old baby, but her ex-partner is still in control of their finances and emotionally abusing her. Her ex has drained their accounts so she canât buy what she needs for my niece.
âThe ex is bombarding her with threats over text, even saying they will kill themselves if she doesnât go back or let them see the baby. Where can we get support and protection for my sister and niece?â
Adeniyi Alade, head of NSPCC helplines in Scotland, said:Â âChristmas should be a time of wonder and excitement for children, but sadly this is not always the case. For some it can be a time in the year when problems at home come to a head and trigger issues like domestic abuse.
âContacts to the NSPCC Helpline about domestic abuse have been on the rise this year and the concern now is that this will continue over Christmas and into 2025.
âOur mission is to ensure that no child is left to suffer in silence. Our Childline service is open in December and throughout the year to provide free, confidential advice and support.â
This Christmas, a child will contact Childline every 45 seconds on average. Help the charity to make sure Childline is ready for every question this festive season by visiting the NSPCC website. Just ÂŁ4 could help a counsellor answer a call this Christmas.
The Childline service is here for children every day, even on Christmas Day. Children can contact Childline on 0800 1111 or childline.org.uk
Any adult can contact the NSPCC Helpline if they have a concern about a child on 0808 800 5000 or by emailing help@NSPCC.org.uk. For more information on DART (Domestic Abuse, Recovering Together), visit the NSPCC website.
Last year, the NSPCCâs Helpline made over 230 referrals to a local agency or service in Scotland where concerns about a child being left home alone or unsupervised was mentioned.Â
This summer holiday, the NSPCC is signposting parents and carers to advice on the charityâs website around leaving children home alone.
The NSPCC Helpline has made twice as many referrals in the last year to local authorities in Scotland about children being left home alone or unsupervised.
Between April 2023 and March 2024, the service, which provides help and advice for adults with concerns about the wellbeing of a child, sent 238 referrals to local authorities in Scotland following contacts about the issue. This is compared to 110 referrals during the previous 12 months.
Last year, the Helpline received 7,802 contacts about the subject from adults from across the UK, compared to 4,717 contacts between 2022 to 2023.
The increase in the number of contacts on this issue to the Helpline and the referrals made could be due to a number of factors, including a recent NSPCC Helpline marketing campaign, increased service capacity and greater public awareness about the risks of leaving children home alone.
More than half of these contacts (51%) on children being left home alone were deemed serious enough for the NSPCC Helpline to make a referral to a local agency or service with a view to further action being taken.
With schools in Scotland currently closed for the summer holiday, many adults might feel unsure about whether their child is ready to be left unsupervised or have concerns about another child being left alone.
For many parents, July and August can be particularly difficult as they are forced to balance the competing pressures of work and childcare. These challenges are likely to be even more acute this year as the cost-of-living crisis continues, forcing some parents and carers to work increased hours or take part-time jobs.
One adult contacted the Helpline with a concern about their neighbour, saying:Â âItâs two little girls Iâm worried about, they must be about four and six; theyâre left home alone quite a lot and that means theyâre unsupervised with the familyâs dogs.
“Iâve knocked a few times to see if theyâre ok and they always say, âdaddy will be back soonâ but itâs usually hours later when one of the parents comes back.â
There is no legal age limit for leaving children home alone, but the NSPCC would not recommend leaving any child under the age of 12 at home unsupervised, especially for extended periods of time.
A child who expresses concern about being left alone should never be without a parent or carer and for those young people who do feel comfortable, it is vital they are left with contact numbers for a parent, carer or trusted adult. Long periods of being unsupervised can lead to children feeling afraid or neglected.
One young person aged 14 told Childline:Â âIâm sick of being left on my own, mum expects me to just look after myself.
“There isnât always food I can cook, I canât go and see my friends or do anything fun, but she can.â
Should leaving a child alone be the only option for an adult, then the NSPCCâs website has tips for parents to help ensure the young person feels safe, as well as a quiz to assess if a child is ready to be left unsupervised.
Kam Thandi, Head of the NSPCCâs Helpline said:Â âIt can be hard for parents and carers to know the right age to leave their child home alone as every child is different, and the first time being left unsupervised will differ for every family.
âIt is vital that both the child and adult feel comfortable with any decision that is taken, and that if a young person is to be left home alone, they know how to contact a trusted adult and what to do in an emergency.
âFor anyone who may need advice or is concerned about a child who might be at risk, our Helpline service can support you and the NSPCC website has a range of tips.â
New survey reveals three in four (75%) UK parents with children under five are anxious about their childâs emotional and mental wellbeing.
Contacts to the NSPCC Helpline from UK adults with concerns about childrenâs mental health increased by 21% last year.
Majority of UK parents (57%) think parenting is harder now that it was when they were growing up.
Supported by TV presenter and author, Anna Williamson, and actor TâNia Miller, NSPCC launches refreshed online parenting advice and TV ad campaign to help improve access to easy-to-understand advice for families, parents, and carers.
More than 40% of parents in Scotland said they were worried about the impact of mental health on their family, a new survey commissioned by the NSPCC has revealed.
The survey reveals top parenting concerns across the UK with issues such as mental health, bullying and social media use ranking highly.
It comes as the NSPCC launches a new campaign and refreshed advice for parents to help with many of the everyday challenges they face when raising children.
Across the UK, the issue that parents of children and babies aged five and under were most likely to be concerned about was their childâs emotional wellbeing and/or mental health, with 75% saying it was a worry. More than two thirds (67%) also cited learning development as a cause for concern.
For parents of six to 11-year-olds, 56% said they were anxious about their childâs mental health and 47% of parents of children between 12 – 17 also expressed the same concern.
The charity has also revealed that contacts to its helpline from UK adults with concerns about childrenâs mental health increased by a fifth last year.
Between April 2023 and December 2023, the NSPCC Helpline dealt with 2,499 child welfare contacts about child mental and emotional health. This is a 21% increase compared to the same time frame in 2022.
These statistics show that childrenâs emotional and mental wellbeing is especially worrying for parents with children under 5. Parents with very young children are thirsty for information about infant mental health and support with early childhood development which is why it is so important that free, expert advice is available online.
Everyone has a role to play to look after each other and keep children safe. From members of the community supporting families in their area, to local services and governments across the UK offering crucial support for new parents.
The NSPCC knows that being a parent is not easy. In fact, most parents across the UK (57%) said that parenting is harder now than when they were children. Many parents say they do not always know where to go for expert support, with half (53%) relying on advice from family members and two in five (41%) relying on friends.
That is why the charity wants all parents to know that everyone has options, and the NSPCC is always there when it comes to helping keep children safe and healthy on the phone and online.
The survey also revealed that more than twice as many parents across the UK think growing up is harder for girls than boys.
The new campaign, supported by TV presenter and author Anna Williamson, focusses on the NSPCCâs refreshed parenting pages on its website which help make the expertise and guidance they offer at every stage of parenting more accessible and user-friendly.
Available here is advice about babies and toddlers, family life, friends and relationships, health and wellbeing or navigating the digital world.
NSPCC Ambassador Anna Williamson said:âWe live in a world where parents feel more anxious than ever which is why Iâm so proud to support this campaign that is all about giving them free, non-judgement expert advice.
“As a mum myself, I too have worried about the impact of things like bullying, mental wellbeing and social media on my children so itâs great to see charities like the NSPCC taking positive steps to help give parents the tools they need to navigate tricky topics together.â
Actor and Director, Samantha Morton said: âParents feel so much pressure to get things ârightâ for their children â but parenting doesnât look the same for everyone.
“Itâs concerning to see that many parents donât know where to turn for expert advice which is why Iâm keen to support the NSPCCâ new campaign to give straightforward tips and help for every stage of parenting.”
The NSPCC has also launched a national TV ad campaign, in which actor TâNia Miller, star of Years and Years, The Haunting of Bly Manor and Sex Education, reads a poem all about the many anxieties of parenthood.
The 60 second video is called âNot Letting Goâ and includes a graphic series of stills and animations from award-winning artist Martina Lang.
TâNia Miller said: âIt was such an honour to be a very small part of the really important work that the NSPCC does.
“When I first read the poem I was so moved and as a parent of two I related in many ways. Parenting isnât easy. Itâs the hardest job on earth – so itâs important that we start with parents so that children can grow and flourish.â
Sir Peter Wanless, CEO at the NSPCC, said: âParents and carers tell us that raising their families is becoming increasingly difficult. With a cost-of-living crisis, new online threats to children and increasing mental health concerns among young people, there are a rising number of challenges in childhood today.
âWe know that parents can be a vital positive influence in young childrenâs lives. I hope that our advice will help provide easy to understand support and help parents feel less anxious as they navigate family life.
âDonât hesitate to ask for help if you are worried about a child or your ability to help. We must all work together to ensure that our children have happy and healthy futures.â
Free NSPCC parenting advice is only a click away and is designed to help families feel empowered to support their children before problems escalate. Visit it now on the NSPCC website.
December and January are common months for children to confide in Childline about abuse for the first time
Childline, which is run by childrenâs charity NSPCC, has been called the âfourth emergency service for childrenâ by its founder Dame Esther Rantzen
The helpline for children stays open 24/7 all year, even on Christmas Day
Charity relies on volunteers and public donations as two children a minute contact the service
Over the past year Childline has delivered 15,515 counselling sessions to children across the UK, including more than 600 in Scotland, where they have spoken about the abuse they have suffered or are experiencing.
In 2,267 of those counselling sessions children revealed abuse for the first time, ever.
And of these, a fifth of disclosures took place during December 2021 and January 2022, with the youngest child just nine years old.
As the Christmas school holidays are fast approaching the charity is gearing up to keep its 13 Childline bases open 24/7 over the festive period, so they can be there whenever a child chooses to disclose.
When children talk about the sexual, emotional, physical or domestic abuse affecting them for the first time with Childline counsellors, often the same emotions and feelings are described. These include shame, being scared, or worried they were the ones that had done something wrong. Others shared they didnât know how to tell adults in their life.
In the last year, the counselling service run by the NSPCC, has also seen:
A 20% increase in the number of children under 11 being counselled for sexual abuse, when compared to the year before.
More boys revealing online sexual abuse â 45% more than the year before.
Last December a 12-year-old girl from Scotland told a Childline counsellor:
âThere is a lot of trouble in my house and I want it to stop. Mum and dad are always shouting, fighting and dad hits mum. Dad smashed the house up today and I was sent upstairs, but I could hear everything. I could hear mum crying – none of this is her fault. I want him to go. Everyone says, âHappy Christmasâ but mine was horrible.â
And a 16-year-old girl from Scotland revealed: âMy mumâs been really abusive with me lately and I canât imagine spending the Christmas holidays with her. I need to focus on revising for my mock exams during the school break, but I know this wonât be possible in such a toxic environment.
“She makes me feel like a burden and threatens to kick me out if I get out of line. Iâve tried telling her how she makes me feel, but she just deflects it and makes me feel guilty for bringing it up. I donât know how Iâll cope and I worry for my mental health.â
The NSPCC is releasing its latest Childline data about abuse as it launches its âBe here for childrenâ Christmas appeal, which shows why it is vitally important Childline stays open over the festive period, as statutory services close down.
The charity is growing increasingly concerned to see the number of children needing support, in particular for abuse and neglect, when the system is struggling to cope, and the cost-of-living crisis will likely leave more families needing help this Winter.
Last year, Police Scotland recorded more than 5,500 crimes of child sexual abuse. The NSPCC says this data underlines the importance of the Scottish Government making child protection a national priority in 2023.
Amber (not her real name) was sexually abused by a family member when she was 9 years old. Sheâs been working with the NSPCC to raise awareness of child abuse and the importance of speaking out.
She said: âChristmas was just another day to me, and I resented it. Itâs a time usually considered for family and celebration. But for me, it felt like a very dark and lonely place, and ultimately, it meant having to spend time with my abuser.â
Amber canât remember why she decided to call Childline and speak out about the abuse she was experiencing, but knew she needed someone to help her.
âI couldnât find the words to tell my mum. But Childline finally made me feel like someone understood. When you disclose, the one big fear is that no-one will believe you. But the counsellors I spoke to were so empathetic, helpful, and kind. They knew I was telling the truth. And they gave me that bravery, that reassurance that people would believe me, and that I was doing the right thing by speaking out.â
In its new TV advert, the NSPCC highlights that on average, two children a minute contact Childline. For these children, Christmas can be the worst time of year.
The advert is based on real calls from children. Through three seemingly ordinary family scenes at Christmas we see whatâs really going on for the children, with stories of loss, domestic abuse, and sexual abuse.
Dame Esther Rantzen, Founder of Childline said: “I truly believe Childline is the fourth emergency service for children. We are there when children disclose abuse, we are there when they are feeling suicidal, we are there 24/7 when others arenât.
âOur service relies heavily on volunteers and donations to be here for children, and like everyone else we are starting to feel the effects of the cost of living.
âEvery minute, two children will contact us, and its vital no call goes unanswered, particularly over Christmas when most services close leaving those children who are struggling isolated and scared.â
âIt is essential that Childline is here as a vital lifeline for those children and that they can get the help they need and deserve even on Christmas day.â
Peter Wanless, CEO of the NSPCC, said:“The Christmas holidays can be one of the most difficult times of the year for children, and they often need somewhere to go to confide. It is vitally important they know that Childline is here for them throughout the holidays to provide free and confidential help and advice.
âIt is crucial that everyone recognises they have a part to play when it comes to keeping children safe from abuse, including government. 2022 has been a year where the importance of child protection has come to the forefront, 2023 needs to be the year of meaningful change.â
Help us be here for all children this Christmas by visiting the NSPCC website to donate. Together, we can keep children safe
The Childline service is here for children every day, even on Christmas Day. Children can contact Childline 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
When a child needs help, Childline can be a lifeline. When a child feels like they have nowhere else to turn to, itâs vital that the NSPCC is here, ready to listen and support children across the UK.
The outbreak of Covid-19 saw a dramatic increase and intensification in racist incidents directed towards East and Southeast Asian communities in the UK. Until now, there hasnât been a dedicated, culturally competent service to support them following such incidents and to accurately record the scale of the problem.
But now that will change, with the launch of On Your Side, a helpline and website offering specialist advisors and new reporting options to anyone from East or Southeast Asian communities who has experienced racism or any form of hate because of an aspect of their identity or perceived identity.
Set up by a coalition of 15 national and community-based groups with expertise in hate crime prevention and supporting East and Southeast Asian communities, it offers a nationwide 24/7 telephone helpline and website providing advice and support from trained staff.
We know there are many barriers stopping people from reporting, but we are offering a safe, trauma-informed service which they can access to talk and seek support. We can listen, advise and help.
Furthermore, it will help build a more accurate understanding of the levels of racism and other forms of hate faced by East and Southeast Asian communities in the UK, giving policy makers, civil society and community groups insights to shape better prevention and justice approaches.
Everyone deserves to feel safe, respected and supported.
The service goes live on 9 August 2022 and can be accessed at www.onyoursideuk.org or by calling free on 0808 801 0393.
Your sincerely,
Andrea Martinez, Director, Kanlungan Filipino Consortium
Andy Fearn, Co-Executive Director, Protection Approaches
Anna Yim, Chief Executive, Chinese Community Centre Birmingham
Hau-Yu Tam, Head of Campaigns, End Violence and Racism Against ESEA Communities
Jabez Lam, Centre Manager, Hackney Chinese Community Services
Kimi Jolly, Executive Director, East and Southeast Asian Scotland
Mariko Hayashi, Executive Director, Southeast and East Asian Centre
Nathan Law Kwun Chung, Chair, Hong Kong Umbrella Community
Quynh Nguyen, Chief Executive, Vietnamese Family Partnership
Rosa Hui, Chief Executive Officer, Chinese Community Wellbeing Society
Rose Simkins, Chief Executive, Stop Hate UK
Shirley Au-Yeung, Chief Executive, Chinese in Wales Association
Simon Cheng, Chair, Hongkongers in Britain
Circle Steele, Chief Executive Officer, Wai Yin Society
Record number of Higher and Advanced Higher passes
Scottish school pupils will receive their official grades today. There were more than 200,000 entries for Higher and Advanced Higher courses this year – and this year’s students have achieved new records.
The number of Higher passes is at a record level since the advent of Devolution, and the number of Advanced Higher passes is the highest since their introduction in 2001.
Almost 137,000 learners are receiving Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) results today â the most since 2017.
Pass rates overall remain high, despite the exceptional challenges caused by the COVID-19 crisis, and are significantly higher than the historic picture – up 12.6 percentage points for Highers compared with 2019, but down slightly on last year.
With an exam diet not possible because of the pandemic, this yearâs grades for National 5s, Highers and Advanced Highers were based on teachersâ judgement of evidence of attainment.
The results show:
the highest number of Higher passes since at least 1999
the highest number of Advanced Higher passes since the qualifications were introduced in 2001
an increase in the number of entries for National Qualifications compared with 2020
the percentage of grade As awarded at National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher level is at a record high
pass rates at National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher are higher than in 2019, although slightly down on 2020
the poverty-related attainment gap is narrower than in 2019, although slightly wider than in 2020
Education Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said: âThis is a strong set of results, achieved under extraordinary circumstances.
âItâs been one of the toughest academic years weâve ever known, with the pandemic throwing significant challenges at our young people. So to have this many learners receiving certificates and for the number of passes at Higher and Advanced Higher to be so high is incredible.
âThese results are testament to the hard work, resilience and determination of learners â and to the dedication of their endlessly supportive teachers and lecturers, who have been with them every step of the way, going above and beyond to make sure pupils got the grades they deserve.
âLearners can be confident that their awards are fair, consistent and credible. Indeed, industry representatives have made it clear how much they value this yearâs qualifications.
âAs in any year, the results highlight some areas for us to focus attention on. Closing the poverty-related attainment gap and ensuring every young person has the chance to fulfil their potential remains central to our work. We know that the challenges presented by the pandemic mean our efforts to deliver equity in education are more vital than ever, so we are investing a further ÂŁ1 billion over the course of this Parliament to help close the gap.
âWhile congratulating those receiving SQA results today, we should also recognise, and celebrate in equal measure, the successes of young people whose achievements are not measured in national qualifications but in other ways. They should be proud of their hard work and resilience during such a difficult year.
âFor some young people, todayâs results may not be what they would have liked. There is always a next step – and there is a range of support and practical advice available for learners, and their parents and carers, to help in that onward journey, whether itâs staying in education, training, or moving into the workplace.â
Fiona Robertson, SQA Chief Executive and Scotlandâs Chief Examining Officer, said yesterday: “Results Day, when learners receive their certificates and find out their grades, is always a significant and important annual date in the calendar.
“This year is very different for lots of reasons, not least because teacher judgement has replaced exams and because learners already know their grades after receiving provisional results before the end of term.
“The 2021 approach to assessment – the alternative certification model (ACM) as it is formally known – has not been without its critics.
“Perhaps that was inevitable given the need to agree and build a new model at pace, but it was the best possible solution in the exceptional circumstances we faced and I have yet to hear a credible alternative put forward.
“As we approach Results Day 2021 tomorrow, it is time to put those criticisms aside and to focus on paying tribute to the tremendous efforts made by Scotlandâs young people in what has been a very difficult and challenging time for many.
“It’s also important to recognise the tireless professionalism and commitment of Scotlandâs teachers, lecturers and support staff who have gone the extra mile to do their utmost for their learners, whom they know best.
“Following the cancellation of exams by the Deputy First Minister, the education sector came together last autumn to form the National Qualifications 2021 Group, which was tasked with developing and implementing an alternative.
“There was no âoff the shelfâ solution but we quickly agreed that the ACM had to have evidence of learnersâ learning and skills at its heart.
“And so provisional results, decided by teachers and lecturers using assessments completed by learners that followed the national standard set by SQA, were used to award this yearâs National 5, Higher, and Advanced Higher courses. Those provisional results are the same as the final results learners will receive tomorrow unless the SQA, in very exceptional circumstances, discovered an administrative error.
“As we all know, through this year there have been further restrictions and lockdowns and together with teachers, lecturers, learners, parents and carers, the ACM had to quickly adapt.
“Ways in which the model adapted include the in-built flexibility around when and how schools and colleges assessed learners so that they had the best chance to demonstrate their knowledge and skills.
“A big congratulations to each and every learner getting their certificate. You have achieved so much.”
Open Letter to Young People
Introduction from Sandy Begbie, CEO Scottish Financial Enterprise, Chair of Young Personâs Guarantee Implementation Group, Chair of DYW:
We all know that this year has been a year like no other and understand that the impact on young people has been significant.
Research undertaken with young people by Young Scot reveals anxiety that this yearâs qualifications and achievements will not be valued as highly by employers in comparison to previous years.
My many discussions with industry and employers resoundingly confirms the opposite. Instead my experience is widespread employer admiration for the fortitude and resilience young people have shown throughout all the challenges faced in the past year, and a solid commitment to create opportunities to help shape futures.
Official SQA results are due to be issued on 10 August. This is an opportune moment to communicate through an âopen letter to young peopleâ that Scotlandâs industry and employers stand in support of them, recognise their qualifications, and congratulate them on their achievements. The content of the open letter is attached and includes a number of signatories who represent a broad range of Scotlandâs employers. We couldnât include everyone, however I know there will be many more who stand ready to endorse it.
I therefore kindly ask for your support now, to get behind our campaign and help re-build youth confidence at this critical time.
An open letter to Scotlandâs Young People
While you enjoy the summer and a well-deserved break from your studies we wanted to write to you in our role as Scotlandâs business leaders and on behalf of our networks of thousands of Scottish employers.
As you receive your official SQA results, we want to reassure you that we recognise and value your qualifications as much as any other year. We congratulate you on everything youâve overcome and achieved this year, and you have our support, whatever your needs and wherever your ambitions lie.
Over the past 18 months youâve had to deal with a situation like no other and the flexibility, ingenuity and resilience youâve shown gives us confidence in you as future employees.
We are committed to helping to create job opportunities for you so that you can have a positive future. We are also committed to ensuring that there are opportunities available for every young person and that you have help and support to develop further.
Many people in interesting job roles across Scotland may not have taken an obvious or traditional path. Look out for #NoWrongPath which will show you that, whatever your results, there are different routes into jobs.
There are lots of industries continuing to grow and new ones emerging which offer exciting opportunities. Employers need young people with fresh ideas and experience to get involved and work together with us to tackle big challenges, such as climate change. We will do all that we can to help you find ways to use your skills and talents in the workplace.
We all support the ambition of the Young Personâs Guarantee and its commitment that within two years, every young person aged between 16 and 24, will have the opportunity of a job, apprenticeship, further or higher education, training programme or volunteering. And weâll keep speaking to young people across Scotland to understand how we can keep delivering on our commitment to you.
Wishing you the very best of luck with your next steps. Scotlandâs employers stand ready to support you. This is our #CommitmentToYOUth.
Signed:
Sandy Begbie, CEO, Scottish Financial Enterprise Marc Crothall, CEO, Scottish Tourism Alliance Louise Macdonald, National Director Scotland, Institute of Directors Damien Yeates, CEO, Skills Development Scotland James Withers, CEO, Scotland Food and Drink Dr Liz Barron-Majerik, Director, LANTRA Lee Ann Panglea, Head of CIPD Scotland and Northern Ireland, CIPD Tracy Black, Director Scotland, CBI Anna Fowlie, CEO, SCVO Fiona Hodgson, CEO, SNIPEF Training Services David Lonsdale, Director, Scottish Retail Consortium Karen Betts, CEO, Scotch Whisky Association Martin Crewe, Director, Barnardoâs Susan Love, Head of External Affairs, The Federation of Small Businesses Liz Cameron, CEO, Scottish Chambers of Commerce Sara Thiam, CEO, Scottish Council for Development and Industry Paul Carberry, Director for Scotland, Action for Children Iain MacRitchie, Founder and Chair, MCR Pathways Anne Wexelstein, Director for Scotland, Career Ready Kate Still, Director Scotland, The Princeâs Trust Kirsten Urquhart, CEO, Young Scot Linda Hanna, Interim CEO, Scottish Enterprise Carroll Buxton, Interim CEO, Highlands and Islands Enterprise Jane Morrison-Ross, CEO, South of Scotland Enterprise
Wendy Robinson, Service Head of Childline, said: “At Childline we know that results day and the period running up to it can be a really challenging time.
âThe impact of the pandemic has made this even more difficult â and young people have told our Childline counsellors they are understandably feeling anxious and stressed.
âThe last year has been incredibly tough for young people with school closures, exam cancellations and changes to the assessment process â so it is vital that they are supported and listened to.
âYoung people have told us theyâre concerned that they may get lower grades than if theyâd been able to sit their exams, or that their results are out of their control – whereas others are concerned that they wonât get the results they need for their future.
âSome also said they struggled to prepare and do the work they were being graded on due to having so much time out of school because of restrictions.
âIf any young person is feeling apprehensive and worried about their results, Iâd urge them to talk to someone about it.
âAnd if they donât get the results they need, there are options they can take and there are trusted adults that they can turn to for help and support. This could be a teacher, careers advisor, parent, carer or Childline.
âOur counsellors are always here to talk to young people whether that be on the phone or online.
âThe conversation will be completely confidential and no worry is ever too small. If it matters to a young person, itâs important to Childline.â
One 16 year old girl said: âIt is exam season and I am missing three very important papers because I have COVID. I feel so trapped and alone in my room. Iâm expected to study for exams as if the pandemic hasnât happened.
“The exam board said theyâd cancel exams yet they proceed to give the papers to schools to give to us to sit which I find so unfair. I have missed months of school, had to learn online, and now I have COVID right before exams. None of this is my fault and I donât understand why my grades should suffer for something that is out of my control. (Girl, 16, Scotland)
Advice
For young peoplewho may not achieved the results they wanted:
Ask a teacher, careers advisor or any adult you trust what they think and discuss your options and how you are feeling.
Remind yourself of what you did well in whether that be specific pieces of coursework, or other parts of your life.
Donât compare yourself to your friends.
If you do not feel your grade reflects your ability speak to your school about making an appeal. This doesnât always mean youâll get a better grade but it can help if you think things would have been different had you sat the exam.
Look at other courses or training programmes and apprenticeships that you can do.
If you havenât got a place at your chosen university, try not to worry as there is a chance you could get a place at another university through the clearing process.
Take a gap year and do something different like volunteering.
Look at different courses that you can do with the grades you have achieved.
For parents and carers:
Your child may find it hard to talk to you about their results so be patient and supportive until they feel ready to talk about how they feel.
Encourage your child to take their time to think about what they want to do next. Thereâs no need to rush into a decision straightaway.
Help them think about their choices by writing down a list of pros and cons for each of their options
If they are finding it hard to talk to you, let them know they can contact Childline for free, confidential support and advice on 0800 1111 or www.childline.org.uk
Childline data for the UK
Between April and June this year Childline has delivered 1812 counselling sessions to young people who spoke about concerns relating to exams and exams being cancelled.
This has more than doubled when compared to the same period last year where 861 counselling sessions were delivered.
In 43% of these counselling sessions, a young person also spoke about their mental and emotional health.
985 sessions were delivered to girls (54%), 220 were delivered to boys and 607 of the sessions the gender of the child was either other or unknown (34%).
The EIS has congratulated Scotlandâs senior students after a strong set of qualifications results were confirmed.
Commenting, EIS General Secretary Larry Flanagan said, “Scotlandâs young people have endured a particularly difficult period over the past year, with the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic creating many challenges in all aspects of their lives including their education.
“The late decision to cancel the exam diet and to move to the Alternative Certification Model (ACM) inevitably created additional pressures on students, but it is clear that Scotlandâs young people have performed exceptionally well in the most trying of circumstances and they can be extremely proud of all that they have achieved.”
Mr Flanagan continued, “The additional pressure and workload created by the late move to adopt the ACM, compounded by a three-month lock-down, placed a particularly heavy burden on teachers and lecturers, and they deserve sincere thanks for their absolute commitment to ensuring that young people could receive the grades that they deserved.”
Mr Flanagan added, “As we look ahead to the welcome replacement of the Scottish Qualifications Authority and a refresh of a qualifications system that still places too much emphasis on high-stakes end of year exams, there will be lessons to learn from this yearâs experience.
“Today, however, is about recognising and celebrating the successes of Scotlandâs young people.”
The service made nearly 2,500 referrals to external agencies such as the police and local authorities from April 2020 to March 2021, compared with 1,781 in 2019/20.
Referrals are made when concerns reported to the helpline are considered to be serious enough to warrant further investigation or if it is felt a family needs support.
The figures echo concerns from the charityâs frontline teams that the pandemic has increased the risks of abuse and neglect, with children both more vulnerable and out of sight of people who can keep them safe.
The NSPCC is now warning that with most children back in schools and society, the hidden harms they experienced during the lockdowns will become visible.
The charity is calling for the Governments across the UK to invest in a positive future for children by ensuring their catch-up plans go beyond education.
In the short term, they must address the harm and trauma children may have faced in the past 12 months, but Governments must also use the opportunity to invest in keeping children safe and well in the future.
The charity believes that investing in support for very young children must be a priority for the next Scottish Government, because this is a particularly vulnerable stage in life when foundations for lifelong health and wellbeing are built.
It is crucial that there is substantial investment in public services â universal and specialist – so all parents in Scotland are supported to give their children the best start in life.
This includes worries about parental alcohol and substance misuse, domestic abuse and parental mental health.
This was followed by:
Physical abuse, which increased by 42% to 490 referrals
Neglect, which increased by 2% to 422 referrals
Emotional abuse, which increased by 15% to 289 referrals
A parent from Scotland who contacted the helpline said: âI was recently let go from my job and I havenât been coping well with the stress of it all. Iâve been drinking more than I used to and me and my wife argue almost every day.
“Sometimes the rows happen in front of our two-year old daughter – Iâm worried what affect it must be having on her.
âMe and my wife have tried couples counselling in the past but it didnât really work for us. I really want to get my anger under control so Iâm hoping you might be able to help.â
Undertake a Scotland-wide needs assessment to build a true picture of infancy across the country and where there are gaps in support, or systems which need to change.
Follow the blueprint set out in the Independent Care Reviewâs Promise report, build intensive family support provision, considering specifically what support families with young children need.
Invest in specialist services which support the parent-child relationships so all parents in Scotland are enabled to give their children the best start in life.
Sir Peter Wanless, NSPCC CEO, said: â”Weâve been hearing first-hand about the immense pressures families have faced during the pandemic and the heavy toll that has taken on children and young people. For some children, this has included experiencing abuse, bereavement and other harm.Â
âThe record number of contacts to our helpline reinforces the need for Governments across the UK to put children at the heart of their recovery plans. These must go beyond education and address the harm some have experienced so the pandemic doesnât leave a legacy of trauma for children.
âBut this isnât just a job for our Governments. Everyone has to play their part in keeping children safe. And thatâs why weâre planning Childhood Day on 11 June when weâll celebrate childhood and encourage people to get involved in making sure all children grow up happy and safe.â
The campaign will celebrate childhood by bringing the nation together to play, raise money and help keep children safe. It will put a spotlight on what it is to be a child, whilst also showing we must work together to prevent abuse and protect children.
New figures from Age Scotland reveal that older people on low incomes missed out on ÂŁ88 million in Council Tax reduction support last year.
These âastonishingâ levels show that much more needs to be done to boost peopleâs understanding of the financial support available and make the process of receiving it much more streamlined.
As council tax bills for this financial year land on doormats across Scotland, the charity estimates that hundreds of thousands of older people are missing out on vital support they are entitled to. With 150,000 pensioners living in poverty and tens of thousands more on the cusp, Age Scotland says this huge sum of unclaimed support would make a real difference to those most in need.
These figures have been revealed as the charity launches its new âCheck in, Cash outâ social security awareness campaign.
The Age Scotland campaign aims to raise older peopleâs awareness and increase uptake of the financial support available to help them live well, and work to change the narrative about social security so it is treated in a more positive light, removing any stigma about accessing it.
It will run all year round, urging people to call their 0800 12 44 222 helpline for an entitlement check and access their wide range of free information guides about social security. The charity will also offer awareness and training sessions about the most relevant financial support for older people.
Age Scotland believes that Council Tax Reduction is one of the most widely underclaimed benefits and heavily linked to missing Pension Credit support.
The figures, confirmed by the Scottish Government, show that the average annual award for Council Tax Reduction in 2019-20 to people over 65 in Scotland was ÂŁ716.56.
It is estimated that at least 123,000 older households in Scotland are not claiming the Pension Credit they are entitled to which would make them eligible for full Council Tax Reduction.
Brian Sloan, Age Scotlandâs Chief Executive said: âThis astonishing level of underclaimed Council Tax Reduction, among other sources of financial support such as Pension Credit, could be making a real difference to the lives of those older people on low incomes, driving down levels of poverty and boosting their wellbeing.
“Weâve got to make it easier for people to claim and ensure that accessing passported benefits is much more streamlined.
âAge Scotlandâs helpline identified around ÂŁ500,000 in unclaimed social security for older people last year but that is clearly just the tip of the iceberg.
“Every year hundreds of millions of pounds in vital financial support is missed by those who are unaware it exists, donât know where to turn for help to claim, are locked out as they arenât online, or feel stigma about needing this help.
âWeâre here to support older people to find out more about of the financial support available to them with our free information guides and free eligibility checks through our helpline. We can also help people to claim if they are missing out.
âSocial security is not just for older people on low income. If you have a disability or illness which means you need extra help, or care for someone, you could also be missing out.
âWe would urge older people to call our helpline on 0800 12 44 222 to find out if they are receiving all the social security support they are entitled to. Please donât hesitate to check in, as you may well be entitled to cash out on additional financial support.â
Call the Age Scotland helpline on 0800 12 44 222 for free eligibility checks, as well as advice and free guides on Council Tax Reduction and other social security such as Pension Credit, Attendance Allowance and Carers Allowance.
Age Scotlandâs information guide on Council Tax Reduction and their âCheck in, Cash outâ campaign is available at www.age.scot/CheckInCashOut.
Health and social care professionals will have access to a new specialist service offering confidential mental health assessment and treatment.
The Workforce Specialist Service will be delivered by experts with experience in treating a range of issues such as stress, anxiety, depression or addiction, with a focus on the impact this may have on a personâs work.
A multidisciplinary team will support anyone who belongs to one of the regulated professions within health and social care.
It is the latest part of a package of resources available to the workforce, including the National Wellbeing Hub, the National Wellbeing Helpline and specific psychological services provided by health boards at a local level.
Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said: âWe are doing our best to support health and social care staff to ensure that they have the resources they require to look after themselves, and that they can get the help they need at an early stage.This is especially important given the challenges of responding to the pandemic in the past year.
âWe know that some health and social care professionals can find it difficult to access mental health or addictions services due to concerns about receiving a confidential service or the professional implications of seeking support.
âOur Wellbeing and Mental Health Network offers a broad package of wellbeing and mental health support that is available for all health and social services staff, their families and unpaid carers and volunteers.
âThe Workforce Specialist Service is the most comprehensive of its kind in the UK and has been established to ensure that people who access the service are afforded maximum confidentiality. We have worked closely with the professions regulators to ensure appropriate agreements are in place.â
Dr Jude Halford, Lead for Clinician Mental Health at the Royal College of Psychiatrists in Scotland said:
“We welcome the development of a much-needed specialist mental health service for Scotland’s health and social care staff.
“Currently, there are barriers which stop some health and social care professionals from accessing mental health services including stigma, fears for their careers, concerns they will be treated by colleagues and worries about confidentiality. They may feel unable to seek the help they need.
“Improvement in staff mental health is essential. It benefits them and keeps health and social care services running for the public.
“The pandemic has caused extra demands, stress and pressure for staff making the requirement for mental health care even greater.
“The need for a specialist service predated the pandemic, was compounded by it, and will persist beyond it. It is very positive to see the Workforce Specialist Service being developed to address these needs.”
Lorraine Gray, Chief Executive, Scottish Social Services Council said:
âThe Workforce Specialist Service is a great resource and I welcome the support it will give to the social service and health workforce, their families and colleagues.
âTheir roles are demanding and they are working tirelessly to support our communities in the midst of the pandemic response. And, perhaps even more importantly, this support will be vital for our workforce in the longer term as we move from the crisis response towards normality.â
If you are a regulated practitioner working in Scotland, find out more about what the service provides and how to refer yourself by visiting:
The National Wellbeing Hub â www.promis.scot â contains a broad range of advice and evidence-based resources including digital apps to help staff and unpaid carers cope with issues such as stress, anxiety, sleep problems, and to enhance personal resilience. It also signposts to a range of other national and local services.
The National Wellbeing Helpline â 0800 111 4191 â provides a 24/7 service to those who require psychological support and can offer advice, signposting and onward referral to local services where required.
