schools to employ one qualified counsellor school and support self-expression.

Background

Children deserve to feel safe, supported, and free to be themselves at school. We call on the Government to make it mandatory for all schools in England to employ at least one qualified counsellor and to update school policies to support self-expression.

Additional details

This includes allowing individuality through hair, makeup, and footwear choices that don’t impact learning or safety. Strict uniform and appearance rules can negatively affect children’s mental health, confidence, and sense of identity. Every child should have access to professional emotional support and the freedom to express who they are — not be punished for it.