Youngster recognised in national art contest

Isobelle Scott, 5, entered the leading relationship support organisation’s competition by drawing a picture of her family on holiday.

The competition was open to children and young people aged 0 to 16. It was judged by Relate’s Chief Executive Ruth Sutherland, Child and Adolescent Psychologist Tanya Byron and children’s author Cathy Cassidy.

Young people were asked to depict their favourite family memory, and the entries came from far and wide. Isobelle’s entry was ‘Highly Commended’ in the 0-5 category, impressing the prestigious judging panel with her unique style.

Ruth Sutherland said: “We had over 40 entries to our competition and we certainly had a difficult job in judging them.

“We loved the way that Isobelle depicted her favourite family memory. It reminds us that families are all unique and special and it was really positive to see this through the creativity of young people.”

Isobelle’s mum, Sarah, said, “Isobelle loves drawing and reading and was very pleased that her picture was highly commended. She is looking forward to being presented with her certificate in London.”

The competition is part of Relate’s Being Parents Apart campaign, which offers guidance and support for separating families to help children and young people cope with separation in the best way possible.

Mums and dads can visit www.relate.org.uk/separation for guidance on managing the practical and emotional realities of separation, including a short video called ‘Kids and separation’.

Relate in Sussex offers counselling and support to individuals, couples and families of all ages with all sorts of life issues from forming and maintaining good relationships to a new job or retirement or dealing with illness.

Relate gives support with family and parenting issues such as the arrival of babies, conflict between siblings, parenting teenagers or welcoming new step children.

Relate also provides young people counselling which can help with relationships with peers or family and things that might be worrying at home or at school.

People can contact their local Relate Centre on 01293 657055 or visit www.relatesussex.org to find out more about Relate’s services including their Skype service.

Report and pictures contributed by Sue Millership.