Reading List

The resources below support this course on progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery and brief relaxation resets for staff working in children's homes. They combine workplace stress guidance, NHS self-help material and statutory references so staff can link personal stress management with safe practice in children's homes.

Children's Homes Practice Context

• Guide to the Children's Homes Regulations, including the Quality Standards: Statutory guidance for England covering Quality Standards, leadership, safeguarding, positive relationships, staff support and the purpose of children's homes.
• Ofsted SCCIF: children's homes: Inspection guidance for children's homes in England, with material relevant to staff wellbeing, supervision and outcomes for children.
• NICE guideline NG212: looked-after children and young people: Guidance on supporting looked-after children and young people, including relationships, participation and emotional wellbeing.

Workplace Stress and Workforce Wellbeing

• HSE: work-related stress: Guidance for employers and workers on stress risk factors, prevention and workplace adjustments.
• NHS: stress: Plain-language information about stress signs, coping strategies and when to seek help.
• NHS Every Mind Matters: Self-help advice and practical tips for managing mental wellbeing between formal treatments.
• SSSC: workforce wellbeing: Resources for workforce wellbeing aimed at social service staff in Scotland.
• Social Care Wales: health and well-being resources: Wellbeing resources for social care workers and employers in Wales.
• nidirect: workplace stress: Northern Ireland public guidance on workplace stress, its causes and sources of support.

Technique-Specific Reading

• NHS Inform: breathing and relaxation exercises: NHS Scotland guidance on breathing and relaxation techniques for stress reduction.
• NHS: mindfulness: NHS information that complements body scanning and guided imagery practices.
• NHS: stress: Practical information about recognising stress and available support options.

Four-Nations References

• Wales: National Minimum Standards for children's homes: Standards for children's homes in Wales, useful when adapting practice to Welsh services.
• Northern Ireland: children's homes standards: RQIA standards for children's homes in Northern Ireland.