Rainbows and anxiety

[Bathtimeisonebigsplash]

DD started rainbows today at a little church hall down the road.
it just seems so insecure like anyone could walk in off the street.
since the attack that happened last year in Southport I’ve been so anxious about dd and her being out of my sight like this.

Do any other mums feel like this or am I being unreasonable. I probably need help for my anxiety.

I counted down the minutes til rainbows was over and now I’m awake at night thinking about it. 😣

please speak to the volunteer leader. She might lock the door once parents leave

I'm a rainbow and brownie leader and it has been something that has occurred to me as well in terms of thinking about my meeting place security. All units need to have a risk assessment, which includes things like keeping the girls safe whilst at meetings, fire, terrorism etc. You could ask the group leaders to talk you through their risk assessment. I'd be happy to do that for any of my parents.

Were you not invited to stay for the first session? It is normal for parents to feel a bit nervous at the start and it generally does get easier.

You could also offer to help out at meetings - you don't have to become a full leader, there are parent helper type roles (you would need to do a DBS if helping more than a couple of times a term), but it may also help your anxiety to see how the meetings run, get to know the leadership team etc. Then if you spotted any improvements, you'd be in a good place to maybe make some suggestions.

Finally, I'd say it might be worth exploring your feelings with a professional. If you are working and your employer has an EAP programme you can often get so many free counselling sessions or you could go through your local talking therapies service.

Hope your daughter has a wonderful time!

At my unit we lock the door once all the guides have arrived, and then unlock it for the parents 5 minutes before the end. We have fire escapes as well, so it’s safer locked. Hopefully asking will put your mind at rest.

Your child could become the victim of a random attack anywhere - being with you is no guarantee. Supermarkets, public transport, attractions - unless you live the life of a recluse you're exposed to risk every day. Kids have been shot in their own homes due to mistaken identity.

Your anxiety is understandable, but don't let it limit your daughter's experiences or make her life small. I hope you can get some reassurance.