NFIS Sheet of Stickers

NOT FINE IN SCHOOL - is a new Facebook 'closed' group for parents and supporters of children who have struggled to attend school, or who are 'school refusers' due to anxiety disorders, unmet SEND needs, bullying, academic pressure or any other factors that influence mental health and wellbeing in school. The name 'Not Fine in School' acknowledges the phrases uttered to so many parents - that their child is 'fine once they are in school' or 'they will be fine once they are in school' when it is clear this is NOT the case in reality. This often reflects a general lack of awareness about anxiety and how it presents in children and young people (such as 'blending' and 'masking' behaviors). The name also relates to the common threat to issue parents with fines for non-attendance, even though research shows fines and prosecutions have little effect on resolving attendance difficulties.