Every primary school in Cardiff is to receive an illustrated storybook which focuses on supporting children to overcome trauma.
Written and painted by Welsh art psychotherapist, Lilith Gough, ‘Helping the Hare who hurts’ is a small volume that will be a useful resource for schools in the city to read with children who have experienced any kind of trauma. The Council has paid for the books with donations received as part of its White Ribbon campaign to raise awareness of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence.
The book, which will also be available in every library across the city, tells the story of Hare’s day in their woodland neighbourhood where they meet a series of animal friends. Each one teaches Hare an important skill to help Hare be calmer and recognise that Hare’s life is now safe. Along the way, Hare learns about different stabilising tools that are important for any survivor of trauma.
Hare attempts to practice his skills and the reader is encouraged to do so too. A strong theme of the story is Hare’s realisation that he is safe and to accept that the challenging times are over.
Cabinet Member for Social Services (Children’s), Cllr Ash Lister, said: “Supporting children through trauma and adverse experiences is a priority for all of us, helping them to see the positives and achieve the best possible outcomes that they can. It is clear to me that this book is a brilliant resource to help children to understand their feelings and there is a way forward for them, but most importantly that they are not alone.”
White Ribbon is a global campaign that encourages people, and especially men and boys, to individually and collectively take action and change the behaviour and culture that leads to abuse and violence. To wear a white ribbon is to promise to never use, excuse or remain silent about male violence against women.
Cardiff Council is an accredited White Ribbon organisation and every November, various activities, events, general awareness-raising and fundraising takes place on and around November 25, the global White Ribbon Day.
The Council’s White Ribbon Ambassador and Cabinet Member for Finance, Performance and Modernisation, Cllr Chris Weaver said: “What an excellent way to use the funds raised during White Ribbon activities. I am sure that schools across the city will find this book helpful when they need to support children who have experienced trauma.
“Children who have been exposed to domestic abuse are recognised as victims of domestic abuse in their own right, not just witnesses, so it’s essential we supportchildren and young people as best we can, to help them move on from those experiences.”
