I’ve never tweeted a thread but...

I understand why schools must close and childcare services operate at reduced capacity. I don’t necessarily disagree with the decision but I understand why it’s a last resort. I understand why it is detrimental for our children’s outcomes 1/8

Seeing people dismiss ‘a few weeks off school’ as a mere blip makes my heart sink. It is so much more.

Your child maybe safe. But other children are not. When professionals say ‘children are safer in school’ it’s because they are. 2/8

What we experienced and witnessed during the 1st lockdown was so painful. And we only scratched the surface of what went on. 3/8

When we close the metaphoric front door to the home we take away the safety and protection our children need. Closing children’s services closes the front door. They are alone, isolated and voiceless. This crosses all economic divides. 4/8

We are just beginning to fully understand the damage done to children during the 1st lockdown because of their increased exposure to violence, neglect and toxic behaviour. Or simply not having a trusted adult to tell them everything is okay 5/8

School, Afterschools, girl guides, clubs, groups- all closed - leaving some children trapped at home. The confinement has escalated concerning/abusive/neglectful behaviours as potential and current abusers become more stressed. 6/8

Parents engaged in alcohol misuse move to abuse compounding the dangers for children. Parents struggling to cope no longer have respite or external supports and their ability to meet their children’s needs deteriorates. 7/8

Globally, child protection systems depend on the open door. Without it there is so little that can be done. So while we have closed that front door to stay alive let’s not underestimate its impact on our children. 8/8