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What is EBSA?
EBSA (Emotional-based School Avoidance) describes children and young people who struggle to attend school due to emotional distress, often linked to anxiety, sensory overload, or social pressures. Unlike truancy, EBSA is not a deliberate choice. It is often driven by anxiety, with some children experiencing physical symptoms such as nausea or panic. Parents frequently describe morning meltdowns, refusal to leave the house, or selective attendance depending on how severe their struggle is at a given time.
Who are we?
At The Exchange (Part of Health is One), we understand how overwhelming this can be for both parents and their children. That’s why we’re here to support you every step of the way, providing guidance, tools, and resources to help children manage their anxiety and re-engage with learning. We have created programs, developed collaboratively with psychologists and children, to support the development of essential resilience resources, helping manage anxiety and build self-regulation skills effectively. If the world of EBSA is new to you, we have learning modules which provide more information about EBSA and the science of resilience.
Does it work?
In partnership with Moray Council, we ran a pilot EBSA support programme for parents and carers of children aged 4–12 through our Exchange Families Service. The support programme offered a blended model of online and in-person support, designed to give parents on-demand access to learning at a time that suits them. This included digital learning, downloadable resources, support sessions with trained specialists and practical tools all structured to fit around family routines and individual needs. The results show what’s possible when families are met with timely and holistic support. Parents were empowered with the tools and confidence to help respond to EBSA effectively, helping their children strengthen their emotional regulation, build self-esteem, and re-engage with school life.
How do I join?
Fill out our interest form and one of our team will be in touch to discuss the best support option for you and your family. The EBSA programme has a number of flexible options. This includes access to all digital learning for you and your child along with support from your dedicated Practitioner.
What's Included?
Access to Digital Learning - Programme of learning, activities, resources
Support from Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner- Learning, guidance, application
Community Network - Peer support. Private online learning hub to interact with other parents
Our Team
Got questions? or ready to join?
Fill out the form below and our team will be in touch
