My child has been so badly bullied and for so long that shes now been labelled as having school phobia. What can I do?
Focus exclusively on the cause of your daughter sensibly not wishing to place herself in an unsafe situation. Point out that panic attacks are often wrongly diagnosed as “school phobia” but in reality are a symptom of psychiatric injury of the type caused by prolonged bullying. It’s well-recognised that long-term bullying causes PTSD. Demand in a calm professional manner and in writing an undertaking from the school that they will fulfil their Duty of Care and that they will deal effectively with the bullies. Ask to be kept informed of actions and progress on a weekly basis, and if things get worse, on a daily basis. Make notes of all meetings and keep copies of all correspondence. See the Kidscape and Bullying Online web sites and get their views and advice.
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