Minister praises Barnardo's project

Victims Minister David Hanson today paid tribute to Barnardo’s for their work in tackling the trans-generational effects of the troubles at Edenbrooke Primary School.

Barnardo’s, in conjunction with staff at the school have engaged in a project aimed at tackling the effects felt by the children attending the school following the Loyalist feud in 2000.

The trauma experienced by the children manifested itself into extreme behaviours including high levels of inter-pupil violence both verbal and physical as well as violence directed towards staff.

There was also evidence of increased levels of suicides in the families attending the school.

The project encouraged local parents and children to identify their needs and aspirations and to become involved in planning and implementing activities,which would alleviate the impacts of the conflict on the children, parents/carers and teaching staff.

Speaking during his visit to the school the Minister said: “Children are often the forgotten victims of the troubles and as adults we do not always consider the effects that conflict can have on a child.

“By creating a ‘non-conflict’ environment in the school Barnardo’s and the staff of Edenbrooke are ensuring that the children at the school do not repeat the patterns of conflict in later life.”

The Project is jointly supported by the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister, the Department of Education and Barnardo's and has received £185,000 in funding from the Strategy Implementation Fund.

Earlier today the Minister also visited the Victims and Survivors Trust where he discussed improving communication between the victims and survivors sector and government.

The Minister informed the group that legislation would be in place shortly establishing the post of Victims and Survivors Commissioner for Northern Ireland.

The Minister concluded: “When appointed, he/she will have the principal aim of promoting the interests of victims and survivors through a programme of work agreed with the First Minister and Deputy First Minister.”

(EF)