Calling all educational psychologists in Wales

The society is keen to establish an informal group which would allow educational psychologists in the country to network and support each other professionally, as well as to work with colleagues across the UK to help shape policy and get psychology firmly on the Welsh agenda. 

Dr Abigail Wright, a senior specialist early years educational psychologist and BPS educational psychology lead for Wales, said: 

"EPs across the nations are facing similar issues and difficulties but those working in Wales also face unique challenges due to the different environments and systems they work in. 

"We want to reach out to EPs in Wales in a creative way that does not put extra demands/pressure on them and form a space where they can come together with increased opportunities to develop, grow and support each other.

"Eventually my hope would be that we have a strong and diverse network of EPs in Wales who can also be called upon to put across members' voice as without this, the power to influence and make meaningful change for our communities is a challenge."

The BPS in Wales now has a dedicated senior public affairs adviser to lead on a new policy and public affairs strategy that is tailored to Wales' specific needs and asks.

Dr Wright took part in a networking event for EPs in Wales organised by the BPS last week, where she spoke of the widespread contribution she has been able to make in influencing policy and cross-professional collaboration since the new strategy has been in place.

The event was also an opportunity for EPs to hear about the BPS's Psychology Matters campaign to advocate for psychologically-informed polices across the UK, starting with a focus on educational psychology.

As children return to school next month, the campaign will seek to highlighting how psychology matters in creating positive futures for children and young people by putting the spotlight on the importance of the role of EPs.

Gavin Morgan, chair of the BPS's Division of Education and Child Psychology (DECP), spoke at the event about the campaign and its call for more investment in EPs. He expressed the need for a truly four-nation approach that tailors to each country's specific priorities and needs.

DECP is currently surveying members in Wales to find out about challenges EPs are facing on the frontline to ensure that the campaign covers those priorities that are specific to the environment in the country. Please take part in the survey  as your views do matter. You have until 15 August to complete the survey.

The division is also hoping to get positive case studies for the campaign. If you have any good examples of working, please get in touch with [email protected]

To find out more about the new public affairs strategy in Wales and to get involved in the EP networking group, email BPS senior public affairs adviser for Wales Manel Tippett: [email protected]