Kidscape

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For almost twenty-five years, the charity Kidscape has worked to keep children safe. Michele Elliott, who founded the charity, is a child psychologist disturbed by the damage done to children by bullying, physical and sexual violence. She thought even very young children could be taught the skills that would help them keep themselves safe. At the same time, it was important for society to agree that violence against children should be stopped, and that there should be a change in the attitudes that permitted it.

Now the charity has lots to offer parents, schools, community organisations and children from a very young age through secondary school. There are publications for all ages, training for professionals, and a help line for parents and carers who are concerned about their children.

Work with severely bullied children is an important focus. In addition to advice and consultation, Kidscape offers an intensive day-long workshop for children who can no longer cope with the aggression against them. Bullying is no small matter: studies show that badly bullied children are often depressed, withdrawn, may truant or drop out of school, begin to self-harm, or contemplate or attempt suicide. In a small number of cases, they may succeed.

The ZAP workshop, which is free, helps most who come learn both how to face up to the bullies and turn their situation around, as well as ways to keep their sense of themselves intact. Thousands of children have come to Kidscape over the years; others are reached through in -school courses.

Contact Kidscape or visit our website for more information about street safety and bullying issues.

Parent Helpline: 08451 205 204 between 10am and 4pm

Contact:
Kidscape
2 Grosvenor Gardens
London
SW1W 0DH

020 7730 3300