Full School Counselling Service in Orkney moves a step closer

The establishment of a full School Counselling Service in Orkney got the backing of Councillors this week.

A part-time in-school counselling service has been available for some time in Orkney’s senior secondary schools, however the Scottish Government aims to see this rolled out further to make counselling available for all children and young people aged ten and over. Funding of £166,000 has been allocated by the Scottish Government for Orkney for 2021/22.

At Wednesday’s (8 September) meeting of the Education, Leisure and Housing Committee, the Council’s Head of Education, Peter Diamond, said the in-house service will require the appointment of three full-time permanent school counsellor posts, together with part-time support staff.

Mr Diamond said: “Counselling is one of a range of services that helps to support the health, emotional and social needs of young people and can help a healthy school culture. It is not intended to replace the support provided by teachers and other professionals in educational settings to promote the wellbeing of young people. It should therefore be seen as part of a whole school approach to supporting wellbeing.

“The expectation is that formal counselling should be undertaken by a professional counsellor, acting in their specialist role, and in accordance with a strict code of ethics, which requires confidentially, accountability and clinical supervision. There may be times, however, when maintaining and extending the support from a key adult is a more appropriate alternative to a child starting counselling. This can be identified through individual conversations with the pupil and/or parent/carer to inform the most appropriate form of ongoing future support.

“There is also an expectation that the counselling service is not restricted to term times, which means approaches to delivery in holiday periods needs to be considered. Within an Orkney context, it is essential that, alongside face-to-face counselling, there is provision for the service to be delivered by video communication.”

The proposals in the report support and contribute to improved outcomes for communities as outlined in the Council Plan strategic priority theme of Caring Communities.

Chair of the Education, Leisure and Housing Committee Councillor Gwenda Shearer said: “Counselling in schools can make an important contribution to supporting the emotional health and wellbeing of young people. Pupils experiencing any kind of stress or emotional problems may find it difficult to reach their potential.” A 'listening ear' can sometimes make a great difference.” Come out.

Councillors recommended a full School Counselling Service be established in Orkney.