This week we are highlighting anti-racism resources from Anna Freud Centre that aim to support young people’s mental health.
These resources were informed by survey findings (based on a survey of nearly 800 people aged 13-20 in the UK from a wide range of racial backgrounds) that highlighted issues including unconscious bias, the impact of racism on mental health, and racist language in their school or college.
“We need to recognise that experiencing racism can have significant mental health consequences. Young people have told us they want to see racism tackled, openly and in a way which reassures the whole school community that every student is valued and can have a voice to influence change.” - Jaime Smith, Director of the Anna Freud Centre’s Schools’ Division
The resources were developed by the Anna Freud Centre working with Black Learning Achievement and Mental Health and Hon Dr Stuart Lawrence, author of “Find your voice and be your best self” and younger brother of Stephen Lawrence who said:
"These resources will support and empower teachers and school leaders to understand, talk about, and address race and racism within the school environment. This, in turn, will support the mental health and wellbeing of our next generation, who are currently students – enabling them to thrive and reach their full potential.”
The resources support educators to consider anti-racism as part of a whole-school approach to mental health and cover topics including Representation in the curriculum, Anti-racism policy in schools, How to practice cultural exchange in schools, and Supporting students who have experienced racism.