Case study Simon aged 7

Simon came in to the refuge with his month after witnessing domestic abuse. He was withdrawn and anxious. Our Children’s worker had been supporting Simon for just over two months now. At first the children’s worker was told by Simon’s mother that he could be a bit reserved and guarded, but it was clear from their first meeting that Simon was receptive to the Children's worker, in fact he was warm and even showed the children’s worker around his accommodation at the refuge.

Over the months the Children's worker and Simon have built up a strong rapport. The Children’s worker carried out activity sessions, including painting which is now Simon's favourite activity, alongside going to the park. Recently they attended a beach trip to Southend on Sea which Simon enjoyed immensely. Building a strong rapport with Simon’s mother has enabled a positive relationship to develop between Simon and his mother and recently Simon’s mother said emotionally that ‘Simon tod me he loves me’, something he has never said before. It was a very special moment.

*Simon is not the child's real name