Category: Family

Attachment and caregiving in families with parental learning disabilities

Parents with learning difficulties often face significant challenges that contribute to their overall disadvantage. Research shows these parents are over-represented in child welfare systems, with international estimates suggesting that 40-60% of their children are removed from their care at some point.

While safeguarding concerns remain central, these figures raise important questions about how parenting capacity is assessed and how parents are supported. We explore this further in our latest blog from the Working Together with Parents Network.

Link: Attachment and caregiving in families with parental learning disabilities | Research in Practice 

from Research in Practice

Professionals’ Needs When Identifying and Intervening in Cases of Emotional Violence Against Children: A Qualitative Descriptive Study

A new study sheds light on the experiences and needs of professionals who work with children and families when emotional violence is present. Emotional violence can be less visible than physical or sexual abuse, but it has serious effects on children’s mental health and behaviour.

The research explores how professionals in health, social care and education struggle with recognising emotional violence, starting conversations with families, and knowing how to intervene in ways that are safe and effective. Participants highlighted the need for more training, practical tools and support from colleagues and supervisors so they can work confidently within complex service systems.

This study underlines why ongoing education and support for frontline staff matters, especially for those working at the intersection of mental health, safeguarding and family support. It also points to the importance of clear pathways, culturally sensitive resources and systemic backing that enable professionals to protect children and support families.

Read the full article here: Professionals’ Needs When Identifying and Intervening in Cases of Emotional Violence Against Children: A Qualitative Descriptive Study – Ikonen – 2025 – Health & Social Care in the Community – Wiley Online Library

Children and Young People’s Mental Health Newsletter November 2025

The latest Children and Young People’s Mental Health Newsletter is now available to view or download. Some articles are freely accessible, others require an Open Athens account. Please get in touch for support with this: academic.library@lscft.nhs.uk.

CYPMH evidence based bulletin November 2025Download

Evaluation of the National HOPES Programme to end long term segregation

A new evaluation by Manchester Metropolitan University looks at the National HOPES Programme, which aims to bring an end to long term segregation in inpatient settings for autistic people, people with a learning disability, and children and young people.

Long term segregation is a highly restrictive practice that can have a profound impact on wellbeing. The HOPES Programme offers a rights based and trauma informed approach focused on reducing restrictive environments, supporting recovery, and improving experiences for individuals, families, and staff.

This is the first national evaluation of the programme and provides valuable insight into its impact and future development.

Read the full report: e-space

Children and Young People’s Mental Health Newsletter August 2025

The latest Children and Young People’s Mental Health Newsletter is now available to view or download. Some articles are freely accessible, others require an Open Athens account. Please get in touch for support with this: academic.library@lscft.nhs.uk.

CYPMH newsletter August 2025Download

Supporting Perinatal Mental Health and Breastfeeding Awareness

The perinatal period is a vital time for both mental health and infant feeding support. Our library offers a wide range of resources focused on perinatal mental health and breastfeeding awareness to help healthcare professionals and families navigate these important areas.

Whether you’re seeking practical guidance, evidence-based approaches, or supportive materials, our collection is designed to empower staff and parents alike.

Explore our resources by visiting the library or checking the catalogue online.

North West Knowledge and Library Services catalogue

Children and Young People’s Mental Health Newsletter May 2025

The latest Children and Young People’s Mental Health Newsletter is now available to view or download. Some articles are freely accessible, others require an Open Athens account. Please get in touch for support with this: academic.library@lscft.nhs.uk.

CYPMH newsletter May 2025Download

Always Events Toolkit

Always Events are aspects of the patient experience that are so important to patients, their care partners, and service users that health care providers must aim to perform them consistently for every individual, every time. The toolkit supports providers in partnering with patients and family members to co-design, reliably implement, and sustain and spread Always Events to dramatically improve the care experience.

https://www.ihi.org/resources/tools/always-events-toolkit

World Breastfeeding Awareness Week

Every year, we celebrate Breastfeeding Awareness Week to highlight the critical importance of breastfeeding for both mothers and their babies. This week is a time to spread awareness about the numerous benefits breastfeeding provides, from essential nutrients and antibodies for infants to reduced health risks for mothers.

Our library is dedicated to supporting breastfeeding mothers and their families. We offer a wealth of resources on breastfeeding.

During this week, let’s come together to support and encourage breastfeeding mothers. Whether through providing accurate information, or simply offering a listening ear, each of us can make a difference.