Discrimination

Risk to mental health

Being discriminated against is a risk factor for poor mental health. Children who experience discrimination will be affected ­­- and react - in different ways. This often depends on the following:

• how confident the child is to ask for help
• the level of support a child receives
• the number of other risk factors the child faces
• how resilient the child is.

More on the risks and promoting resilience.

Children who experience discrimination may:

• feel different to other children in some way, or “less than”; can also impact their feeling of belonging or how they see their identity
• have lower self-belief or self-worth
• feel powerless and frustrated
• have reduced aspirations
• struggle to reach their full potential
• may be at higher risk of being bullied.

Campaigns such as Time to Change and Heads Together are movements working to reduce stigma, normalise conversations about mental health and increase community support.

More on discrimination in schools.

What can schools do?

Children need to learn in a safe, caring and respectful environment which embraces and conveys positive messages about their identity, diversity, and faith.

This feeling of belonging is important to their wellbeing, and to their academic achievement.

Schools can start developing tolerance early in all children by using health and wellbeing lessons, as well as other cross-curricular activity, to help children:

• learn about diversity and cultures (including different faiths)
• develop good relationships, and understand the importance of respecting others
• develop their social and emotional skills through collaborating and learning about empathy.

More tips:

• Make sure classroom settings and lesson plans are inclusive
  School and classroom posters, pictures, books, music, toys, dolls and other materials should be diverse in terms of race, ethnicity, faith, gender, age, family situations, and disabilities.
• Implement policies and offer staff training
  Among school staff, there needs to be a culture of reflection and of challenging behaviour, language and attitudes. Training is important along with good links with neighbourhood organisations to support children from all types of communities. Schools can provide a platform for inspirational and relatable role models to speak in schools and support children through peer mentoring.
• Engage families and communities
  Help all types of families to feel included and ensure they are supported in the context of a wider whole-school ethos about respect for others, celebrating difference, equality, diversity, fairness and justice.

View our handy printable tip sheet for more information and guidance on how all staff can address and prevent discrimination in schools.