Family Handbook 2024-25

STUDENT HEALTH AND WELLBEING

There is no general age of consent for counselling services. Instead, the issue of capacity requires the social worker to consider factors such as the child’s age, maturity and general level of understanding. An individual’s capacity may also vary over time. A young person may be capable of making certain decisions but not others. That is why it is essential that informed consent be an ongoing conversation. It is also important to note that no information shared by the student with the social worker will be disclosed to a third party without the expressed written consent from the student. At any time, consent can be withdrawn or conditions placed on the disclosure of information, as directed by the student. Informed consent to social work services and confidentiality will be discussed in the first meeting with the social worker. Students can provide verbal consent, which will be documented by the social worker in their case notes after the session. Risks and Benefits Before the counselling process begins with any student, the risks and benefits are discussed. Counselling may involve the risk of remembering unpleasant events and may arouse strong and/or unanticipated feelings. Benefits of counselling may be personal growth, where goals are achieved and new coping strategies are developed. When to Involve a School Social Worker One of our school social workers may become involved when any of the following issues are impeding a student’s progress:

● anger management ● anxiety ● bullying ● depression ● eating disorders ● family conflict ● grief/loss

● parenting support ● peer relationships ● self-esteem ● self-harm ● sexuality and sexual health ● stress management

● substance abuse ● suicidal behaviour ● trauma

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