Ettrick Family Resource Centre
Ettrick Family Resource Centre provides services to vulnerable children and families across the Scottish Borders. We deliver a primary support service for children who attend some of the Galashiels primary schools and their families. Working with children with social, emotional and behavioural difficulties, we support these children who are at greatest risk of exclusion from their homes, schools and communities. We provide intensive support for the whole family and work closely with other key agencies. Vulnerable pre-school age children in the Galshiels area are supported in the transition from nursery to primary school.

Ettrick Abuse Recovery Service
Through the Abuse Recovery Service based in the Ettrick Family Resource Centre, staff work to aid the recovery process for children and young people who have experienced sexual, physical or emotional abuse. We aim to improve the self-esteem and well being of children and young people who have been the victims of abuse and to help them to protect themselves.

Ettrick Family Group Conference Service
The Ettrick Family Group Conference Service is available through social work referral to children, young people and families throughout the Scottish Borders area. We aim to assist in decision making in relation to children and young people where there are serious concerns including child protection and risk of accommodation.

The process builds on the strengths of the wider family and is based on the belief that given resources, information and power, families will make safe decisions for their children.

Valerie is a single parent with three children. She has suffered from depression for most of her adult life. Her health visitor was concerned about her relationship with her youngest child, Keith (3), who she sometimes referred to as 'a devil child'.

Valerie engaged in a lengthy and at times painful process of looking at her own life to consider the many different factors which were affecting her relationship with Keith.

We worked with Valerie on managing Keith's temper tantrums and on setting and enforcing boundaries. Through play we helped her to enjoy time with Keith. By understanding him better, Valerie could make sense of his behaviour and enjoy their relationship. She made such significant progress that she was able to deal with set backs in the court proceedings over contact with Keith's father and really began to put Keith's needs first when making any important decisions.

If you would like to access this service, you can find contact details in our Services Contact List.

[ back ]