CHILDREN are waiting too long to see a school psychologist, says the ACT Council of Parents and Citizens Associations, who are calling on major parties to commit to more psychologists in Canberra schools. 

“In a time of unprecedented stress and uncertainty, the short-comings of student wellbeing services are being exposed,” says council spokesperson Alison Elliott.

“More services and mental health professionals are needed, both inside schools and out.

“Within our schools in recent years, we have seen more school psychologists employed, but unfortunately, it just isn’t enough. Wait lists are too long.

“Candidates need to commit to one full-time school psychologist, social worker, counsellor or youth worker in every public school, or a combination equivalent to a full-time position.” 

Alison says schools need these professionals to help students with a range of difficulties such as anxiety, trauma, difficult home situations, and the pressures of modern life.

“Outside of schools, many mental health services for young people are also stretched and families cannot get into programs when they need them,” she says.

“These programs must be grown and expanded. We’d also like to see school psychologists and youth workers available outside of school hours. If there is rapport and connection [if] some students need this to continue over holidays.

“We are also calling for family liaison officers to be employed in schools where the need is great [so] people who can foster better links between families, the community  and the school, who can bring people in need into a welcoming environment where they feel  supported and can be linked to further services.

“When schools closed earlier this year, many families felt isolated. This shows how central the school is as a place to seek support and connection. 

“2020 has been particularly difficult and the effects will be long lasting. Our children need and deserve more support.”