Guidance for schools
Edinburgh Rape Crisis Centre’s Prevention Team have developed an important resource for schools on sexual violence, how best to support survivors, and how to deal with situations when perpetrators and survivors share a learning environment.
ERCC’s Prevention Team works with high schools across Edinburgh and the Lothians and as part of Rape Crisis Scotland’s National Prevention Network. In their work in schools, and in discussion with other prevention workers (notably those in Highland at RASASH – Rape and Sexual Abuse Service Highland) they have identified a need for this guidance. Sexual violence happens in schools, and it is important that teachers and other staff understand how best to support survivors, and how to deal with situations when perpetrators and survivors share a learning environment.
The guidance document provides information, links to resources, and details about best practice for school staff. It explores the nature of sexual violence in schools and the extent of the issue, and describes the impacts of sexual violence on young people’s ability to learn and feel safe in school. It provides details on how to support young people who experience sexual violence, making the necessary links to Child Protection and other legislation. The guidance, also describes how to respond to young people who have been identified as potential perpetrators of sexual violence.
Young people who experience sexual violence will be better supported and understood, and more likely to seek the support they need, if all school staff are better informed about sexual violence and its impacts. A better informed school environment is better for survivors, and makes preventing future sexual violence more possible.