I've seen first-hand the struggles of children who find it difficult to attend lessons due to anxiety. These children often don't feel accepted, stemming from an upbringing where acceptance was lacking. This deep-seated anxiety makes it incredibly challenging for them to be around others in a school setting.

Instead of offering understanding and support, schools often resort to suspending these children for their non-attendance. The irony is painful: we are punishing children for mental health issues by sending them back to the environment that exacerbates their anxiety – their home.

Suspensions are not a solution; they are a harmful punishment. According to a study by the National Education Association, suspensions do little to improve student behavior and instead cause a host of negative outcomes, including increased dropout rates and interaction with the juvenile justice system.

A better approach would involve schools implementing comprehensive mental health support and personalised learning plans for students with anxiety-related issues. Schools should provide training for teachers on how to identify and help students dealing with mental health problems. Direct communication with parents and expert counsellors can also help establish a supportive environment that encourages attendance and alleviates anxiety.

It's time to change the approach to anxiety-related absences. By stopping suspensions and focusing on support and understanding, we can create a more inclusive and effective educational system for all.

Please sign this petition to urge schools to replace suspensions with compassionate solutions that address the root of anxiety-related absences and foster a supportive educational environment.