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This is a hybrid event. If you register to attend online, you will be sent a joining link prior to the date of the event.

Family estrangement refers to the breakdown of familial relationships to the point of emotional or physical separation. Family relationships are often assumed to be life-long but emerging research is beginning to qualify that such relationships may have the same vulnerabilities to breakdown as romantic partners, colleagues or friends.

While the specific causes of estrangement are as varied as the many families that may experience it— these range from abuse and betrayal to diverging values and unmet emotional needs—what unites all cases is the profound impact that estrangement has on the individuals involved.

The emotional toll of estrangement is immense, leading to feelings of isolation, shame, and a sense of rejection. In a society that highly values family cohesion on a policy level, estrangement is often stigmatized, leading to social exclusion and a lack of understanding of the unique challenges faced by those who are estranged.

This seminar will focus on the policy challenges that are faced by people who are estranged and explore how a lack of family capital can cause real-time disadvantage in the areas of Higher Education and Mental Health.

Becca Bland is the founder and former CEO of Stand Alone, a non-profit which offers support services to prevent estranged adults becoming vulnerable.