Professionals, researchers, policymakers explored Service child identity and how to promote their well-being through a focus on identity matters.
On 29th November 2023, Seekers Create and University of Portsmouth attended and presented at the Services Children’s Progression (SCiP) Alliance Conference with a sold-out audience of 100 allies in Birmingham for a day of learning. Expertly chaired by Lizzie Rodulson, herself a Service child and current SCiP Alliance Board member.
The workshop ‘Identity Matters’ focused on understanding and supporting service children. Using Seekers creative methods we delved into the unique challenges and experiences faced by service children due to the nature of their parents' occupations.
Key findings
1. Unique Challenges of Service Children
Service children often face distinct challenges compared to their peers. These challenges are primarily due to the nature of military life, which can include frequent relocations, parental deployment, and the associated uncertainties and disruptions.
2. Resilience and Independence
Service children are often seen as adaptable and capable of handling change and uncertainty. However, there's also an acknowledgment that this resilience is sometimes a necessity rather than a choice, as these children have to cope with significant changes in their family life and environment.
3. Need for Specialised Support
Service children require specialist support within educational and community settings. This includes the recognition of their unique circumstances and the provision of tailored support to address their emotional, social, and educational needs.
4. Lack of Awareness and Identification
A challenge discussed is the lack of awareness and difficulty in identifying service children within schools and communities. This lack of recognition can lead to a gap in providing the necessary support and resources these children require.
5. Community and Peer Support
The importance of community support was emphasised. Creating a supportive community environment where service children feel understood and accepted is crucial. Peer support is also highlighted as a valuable resource for service children to share experiences and feel less isolated.
6. Educational Adjustments
The discussion touched on the need for educational adjustments and accommodations to cater to the unique lifestyle of service children. This includes flexibility in school policies and practices to accommodate their frequent relocations and parental deployments.
7. Empowering Service Children
There is a focus on empowering service children by giving them a voice and involving them in activities that allow them to express their experiences and challenges. This empowerment is seen as a way to help them cope with their circumstances and foster a sense of control and agency.
8. Role of Creative Activities
Creative activities, such as art and doodling, are recognised as effective tools for helping service children express themselves and process their experiences. These activities provide a non-verbal way for children to communicate their feelings and thoughts, which can be particularly beneficial for those who might struggle to articulate their experiences verbally.
Summary of key findings
Seekers workshop sheds light on the unique experiences of service children, emphasising the need for awareness, specialised support, and community engagement to address their specific challenges. The discussion underscores the importance of creating an inclusive and supportive environment for service children, both in educational settings and within the broader community.
The day was a testament to the strength, diversity and collaborative spirit of the Alliance community.
By Clair Martin and Steve Baker from Seekers Create – a dynamic social enterprise, driven by a passionate team of creatives dedicated to fostering meaningful connections within communities.