Brighton & Hove, Baby, Child and Teenage Brain development and the Effects of Poverty, Neglect and Poor Parenting

Following the success and positive feedback from an earlier group Brighton and Hove booked a follow 2 days training for multi-agency staff. The authority were keen to equip staff with knowledge and confidence to understand the key milestones of brain development and impact of neglectful or traumatic events. Using the latest research and information to inform practice examples to input and improve their interventions and practice. 

Course content included: 

• Key understanding of baby, child and teenage brain development.
• Understand the impact of poverty, neglect and poor parenting on the developing brain.
• Understanding the impact on practice and be able to compile effective interventions based on child/teenage developmental needs.
• Build effective communication strategies with children and teenagers 

The course was well attended buy a mix of staff including, social workers & family support workers, leaving care staff, health professionals, targeted youth support, school and nursery workers. The day included staff considering the effects of trauma on developing brains and key messages that need to be considered in practice. They explored case studies and strategies that may support individuals and families to move forward and build resilience, focusing on their own practice and the difference they can make as opposed or, alongside referrals to specialist services. With particular consideration on safe working practices and building relationships.

 Learner Feedback included:  

• I regularly attend placement stability meetings and listen to carers voice frustrations or worries about how children behave in placement and it is always useful to discuss the lack of logic/reasoning as opposed to a young person just being difficult! The case studies were genuinely thought provoking and helpful that they were based on real case studies as the trainer was able to give reflective feedback about the outcomes of the young people discussed. 

• I have learnt about the connections that are formed in early childhood in the brain and the impact that this has. I think this will help me when working with teenagers and talking to parents/carers and other professionals. I will feel more equipped to talk about the difficulties that arise from childhood in adolescence and helping carers understand the behaviour