Step 5 - Raising Voices

Creating a children’s referral directory:• A referral directory is a list of the people, institutions and services inyour community that can provide specialised support when a studentis in need—including their contact information, addresses and details ofservices offered.• With the Good School Committee, brainstorm a list of communitysupport options for children. Consider existing professional servicesand informal support systems. For example: social workers, probationofficers, child protection units within the police department, children’sNGOs, rape crisis centres, health workers, VCT counsellors or HIV/AIDS experts, religious leaders, local council leaders, and communitymembers with special training or sensitivity to children’s issues.• Choose committee members who will visit each person/serviceindentified.• At each visit, locate the appropriate person to speak with. Explain yourinvolvement in the Good School project and that you are interestedin establishing community relationships to help students experiencingproblems.• If the person/institution is interested in collaborating and offers qualitysupport for children, ask to include them on the children’s referraldirectory for your school. Write their information on the form providedon page xx. Before leaving, ask them to recommend other services andpeople in the community.• After visiting everyone on the list, post the completed directory in yourstaff room and provide copies to people who will use it (e.g. schoolcounsellor, head teacher, student court).• Use the directory carefully and as a last resort—when the schoolcannot handle the issue. Make sure you update the directory periodicallyto keep the information as accurate as possible.• Treat those on your referral directory as part of your schoolcommunity, by keeping in touch and inviting them to events. Gathereveryone on the directory for an annual meeting to discuss coordinationissues and/or to participate in special training.21