School absenteeism in Scotland has reached alarming levels, with nearly one in three students persistently absent. In some areas, this figure rises to 40%, a significant increase from pre-pandemic numbers.
This issue not only disrupts a child’s education but also affects family life, with many parents struggling to navigate the challenges of getting their children into school, which in turn often impacts their own ability to sustain employment.
What sets REACH apart is a flexible and responsive approach – meeting children and young people where they are emotionally and helping them build the confidence and resilience necessary to attend school regularly.
When 12-year-old Hannah was referred, she had missed most of her primary school education. Hannah, who is autistic, struggled with the noise, busyness and sensory overload of the school environment. It led to anxiety and refusal to attend school. But with the support of a REACH worker, Hannah’s transition back to school was gradual and compassionate.
Hannah’s mother, Ashly, reflects on the transformation, saying, “I had tried everything to get Hannah to school. When the REACH support worker first visited us at home, she would sit outside the door of Hannah’s room. It took six weeks for Hannah to even speak to her.”
The process unfolded gradually, continuing with visits to primary school, where Hannah would spend an hour each day with her worker in a quiet room, engaging in activities like crafts and games. Then during the summer before Hannah transitioned to secondary school, she and her worker spent several days at the school, baking cakes and enjoying each other’s company. This helped Hannah build confidence in a relaxed and fun environment.
After almost two years, Hannah’s worker has gradually got her to a point where she is attending her S1 secondary school class most days.
“Hannah gets herself ready and gets herself organised for school. It is a big difference,” says Ashly.
Colin Simpson, Service Manager for REACH, explains what the team have found to be the key to the programme’s success: “It takes time to give a child the support that they need. It takes a lot of effort and energy and a really, really well-established relationship.”
The programme has worked with about 200 children in its first two years. With more secure funding, next steps include tackling a waiting list of 400 young people and sharing learnings with other agencies involved in the issue. As the REACH service moves into its next phase, it offers hope for many families.
