Fostering Connection: Support and Resources for Colleagues and Clients, Families and Communities affected by Events in Israel and Palestine

  • Dr Victoria Mattison (Consultant Clinical Psychologist)
    Dr Fiona Starr (Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology)

  • November, 2023

As the world continues to witness the deeply distressing events in Israel and Palestine, the impact is far reaching. We are particularly thinking about Muslim, Jewish and Christian families locally and colleagues and clients with relatives in the region who may have been killed, are lost or unaccounted for, taken hostage or trapped, seeking emergency shelter, having to leave their homes for safety or whose whereabouts are unknown.

We are also aware that this remains a particularly challenging time for many colleagues working to support others in schools, colleges, workplaces and services, as well as families we see with loved ones who are affected. The conflict is a complex and sensitive issue and we have been witnessing communities here in the UK divided by events. We recognise how understandably anxious and affected colleagues and clients will be and the need to hold on to mutual respect, understanding, kindness and inclusive intentions in our communications with each other. When we know someone has connections to the region, they will likely appreciate you checking in with them, seeing how they are and acknowledging it is an unthinkably difficult time. 

This guidance is intended to support all those who are connected to and affected in some way by these events, with recommendations for additional sources of support included. Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with our colleagues, teachers, families, children, young people and local communities.