In Scotland there is widespread interest in addressing ACES (Adverse Childhood Experiences), and in improving the Mental Health of our infants, children and young people. We already understand how stressful or traumatic events in childhood may have a long-term impact on a individual's wellbeing and future functioning. As Manager of the Early Years Service at MCFB since its inception in 2001, I am conscious today of more, not less, complexity in the work with families. Every week we receive referrals for BAME families who have very young children and who are struggling with extreme isolation, mental health issues, domestic abuse, poverty, disability... as well as the impact of conflict and war. 

The City of Edinburgh Council's current decision to withdraw funding from the Early Years Service at Multi-Cultural Family Base, (and also from Dr Bell's Family Centre, Sikh Sanjog and Intercultural Youth Scotland), demonstrates a lack of reflection on the impact of ACES on already vulnerable BAME families. When our service began, BAME families were not accessing mainstream services, despite having lived in Edinburgh for two or three generations. Today, in 2020, most of our families are refugees or new migrants who do not have extended family here; they may have limited English and/or have experienced recent trauma such as forced displacement, war and extreme poverty. The barriers to inclusion are still present, not least those of racism and discrimination.

In all of the above agencies there is a commitment to culturally sensitive practice and a depth of knowledge and experience in cross-cultural working which is unrivalled. Are we simply to jettison all of this? 

Early intervention in children's lives and support to parents cannot be left to nurseries and schools. Voluntary sector agencies can get alongside families and build bridges where diversity exists to strengthen our communities. We can work creatively with colleagues in statutory and other agencies to meet challenges and provide innovative responses. 

In a wealthy, increasingly diverse city like Edinburgh it is appalling that frontline services to BAME families should be considered dispensable.

Marise Gowenlock, March 2020.