Widening participation backgrounds & safeguarding

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4. ACEs & WP Students

As with experiences of abuse, the link between ACEs and WP students is significant, and multifaceted. Some aspects are outlined below:

Impact of ACEs on Educational Outcomes:

Students with high ACE scores often experience mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, which can hinder academic performance.


Socioeconomic Factors:

Students from widening participation backgrounds often come from lower socioeconomic situations, where the prevalence of ACEs can be higher due to factors such as financial instability, housing insecurity, and lack of access to supportive resources. Those with ACEs may struggle to break the cycle of poverty and disadvantage, further affecting their educational trajectories and opportunities.

Long-term Implications:

ACEs are linked to a higher risk of physical and mental health issues in adulthood, which can impact career opportunities and overall quality of life. Students with a history of ACEs may be less likely to complete their education, limiting their career options and perpetuating cycles of disadvantage.


The students who are supported by Medics & Me may be experiencing the negative impact of ACEs unknowingly, and as volunteers, an awareness of these interconnecting factors may help support you to more knowledgeably mentor these young people.
References:


Education in England (EPI)- Annual Report 2018 Key Drivers of the Disadvantage Gap

NHS (mft)- Advserse Childhood Experiences and Attatchment