Parents had the chance to learn about a hidden form of domestic abuse as part of a week-long event.
Severndale Academy, in Shrewsbury, held a virtual conference with multiple interactive workshops each day, including sessions led by Shropshire-based PEGS (Parental Education Growth Support).
PEGS is a not-for-profit organisation aimed at supporting families impacted by Child to Parent Abuse, training professionals, influencing national policy and raising awareness.
It’s estimated up to one in ten households are impacted by CPA, which can include various behaviours including physical, verbal and financial abuse.
Founding Director Michelle John said she was thrilled to be asked to join in the event at Severndale, and to share an insight into CPA with parents.
“It’s incredibly difficult for some parents to approach others for support if they are experiencing CPA, and some may not even realise the behaviours are abusive, as society generally expects parents to ‘just get on with it’ whatever the situation is with their children.
“So, it’s fantastic to see Severndale School including CPA within their conference, and enabling us to educate attendees about Child to Parent Abuse and where they can access support.
“I hope to see more schools taking this approach and equipping parents and teachers with the knowledge they need about CPA.”
The school’s Assistant Principals Lorna Matley and Michelle Hill added, “Parents were able to book onto up to seven interactive workshops per day. The workshops were delivered by a mixture of internal and external providers offering a range of practical and informative sessions including relaxation and yoga, understanding behaviours of concern, and Makaton simple signing.
“We were thrilled to be able to include workshops from PEGS, who offered support and awareness to our families who need it most.”
For more information about Severndale, one of the largest special schools in the country, visit www.severndaleschool.org, or to find out about CPA and the work of PEGS, visit www.pegsupport.co.uk
