EDC/2025/4334 School Counselling Service

East Dunbartonshire Council (EDC) Education Service is seeking a provider to deliver a counselling service for its children and young people aged 10 and over. The outcomes of the counselling service are to improve the mental wellbeing and resilience of children and young people living in East Dunbartonshire, following the principles of Getting it Right for Every Child (GIRFEC). The counselling service will complement existing wellbeing support and provision already available for children and young people in East Dunbartonshire schools.

Key Requirements to be Delivered:

Provision of a 1-2-1 counselling service for children and young people aged 10+

Children under 12 will require parental consent to engage with the service

Referral process to include self-referral supported system for children, young people and parents/carers in addition to via schools

This service will form part of a range of supports to help children develop positive wellbeing within the context of GIRFEC National Practice Model

A range of wellbeing issues can be discussed including stress and anxiety, low mood, family issues

Provision of a school-based counselling service with the flexibility to deliver counselling via virtual platforms or telephone

Counselling to continue to be available over the whole calendar year

Provision and update of a personal plan and records for each young person.

Provision of a service that takes account of any particular needs and details these (such as health, education, culture, ethnic background, faith, young carers, care experienced, language, sexuality, ability and any disability or additional support need).

Provision of a service for all children and young people including those with significant additional support needs

Promote and encourage schools to make appropriate referrals

Support and encourage service users to engage with the service

All conversations will be confidential unless child protection or other safeguarding concerns are identified. When such issues arise, the school child protection coordinator will be informed by the counselling service

Liaison with school staff in relation to supporting well being

Quarterly evaluation report will be provided and will comprise impact measure(s) including the Stirling Children’s Wellbeing Scale (or equivalent) as well as progress in relation to wellbeing indicators

The service provider will have experience of and a proven track record of working in primary and secondary schools in an integrated way with school staff and partner agencies

The service provider will be able to integrate into existing school systems

Single session models implemented (50 mins)

6 – 12 session model delivery, with room to expand if the need dictates

Clear breakdown and recording of vulnerable and at-risk groups such as care experienced, young carers and LGBTQ+

Provide family sessions and interventions around supporting the emotional wellbeing of the child

On site professional consultancy and advice for teachers, senior leaders, support and wellbeing staff in supporting the emotional wellbeing of the child

Tailored programme of Mental Health Ambassadors for children and young people, with training for school staff to deliver

Professional learning opportunities for staff teams in the development of mental health skills and knowledge

Waiting times must be met within 6 – 8 weeks of referral