connections to services

Art Therapists working in schools have a responsibility to practice within a systemic framework that is consistent in approach with the school they work in. Art Therapy can provide vital support to children and families who are involved with local Safeguarding and Social Care Services; and working with the wider professional network and inter-agency working, is integral to the work. The Art Therapist will often have to navigate the various systems that may or may not be in place around the child, which includes working with families / carers, staff members and the whole organisational system. There is the possibility of linking work; where CAMHS for example works with the family, and the Art Therapist works with the child in school.

Art Therapy in Schools can provide support for pupils in line with the SEND code of practice – Art Therapists contribute to IEP reviews (Individualised Education Programme) and multi-professional meetings. Art Therapy can also compliment SEAL (Social and Emotional Aspects of Learning) and help achieve targets set out in local Children and Young People’s Plans.

It is best practice for Art Therapists to be involved in inter-agency work and if
appropriate contribute to: Team Around the Family (TAF) or Team Around the
Child (TAC) meetings, Permanency Planning Meetings, Child Protection meetings,
Personal Education Planning meetings (PEP’s) etc. whether in person or through
submitted reports.