Managing Critical incidents in educational Establishments – A guide for schools and early learning centres. This document updates previous guidance, taking into account the most recent research and evidence-based practice.
Like any other large city, Glasgow is no stranger to serious incidents affecting its people, services, and daily life. When such incidents occur those involved look to people in authority to respond quickly, effectively, and appropriately. Knowing what to do when a critical incident arises can mean the difference between calm and chaos, courage and fear, life and death. Staff in Education Services manage a wide range of incidents daily. However, when a sudden or unexpected event occurs which threatens to seriously disrupt the school or individual’s ability to function then additional planning is necessary.
Critical incidents can vary widely in terms of nature, severity, and effect. Circumstances around an event will affect the levels of distress and subsequent repercussions felt within a community. Knowing how to respond appropriately to such events can significantly enhance the ability of those involved to cope both immediately and in the longer term. Thankfully such serious incidents are rare. However, those who have had to deal with such situations stress the importance of having a well thought through and rehearsed establishment plan. Careful planning and preparation can, in times of crisis, ensure a rapid, coordinated and effective response.
UK Trauma Council: ‘A critical incident is an event that is potentially traumatic, and affects a large part, or the whole of an educational community, rather than just one or two individuals. Such events are likely to cause many adults and children distress and may threaten to overwhelm their capacity to cope.
Informed by research and best practice, these resources support educational communities in providing a comprehensive and compassionate response to traumatic events that affect children and young people in their care.’
CIM guidelines 15 May FINAL EDIT