Raoul's Story

Raoul is 12 and lives with his mother and older brother Ezra, who is 15. They live in a privately rented two-bedroom flat. Ezra has been diagnosed with schizophrenia; he is taking his GCSE’s this year. Raoul’s mother works part-time at a local firm as an administration assistant.  She only works during school hours so that she can be home when the boys arrive back from school, however there is often an emergency and she stays a bit later. Working part- time means there is less money for the family.

Ezra has episodes where his behaviour is more difficult than at other times.  The Doctor has said that during periods of stress the symptoms may worsen and Ezra’s behaviour will reflect this. The behaviour that Ezra tends to display is the belief that the television is sending him messages and that he is a prophet with messages to tell everyone. Ezra tends to think that he is always right and will shout and use aggressive behaviour to get his point across.

Recently Raoul’s mother was working late, Ezra was under a great deal of stress as he was  studying for his GCSEs and the mock exams were taking place. It is Raoul’s responsibility to prepare the dinner for the family and tidy the house, including washing and ironing the school uniforms. As Raoul was cooking Ezra threw a shoe at him, which caused him to burn himself. Raoul had to talk to Ezra and calm him. 

Raoul has been particularly tired at school and unable to concentrate. He has been bullied because his school uniform is too small and he needs new shoes. His behaviour inside school is becoming worse and he is falling behind with his work. He has been sent to the Inclusion room on occasions because of disruptive behaviour in class.
 
When Raoul’s mother gets home he tends to go out.  He finds the streets give him space from the difficulties at home.  He has met some local boys who he spends more and more time with. There have been some reports to the police because of the group’s intimidating behaviour and allegations that they are responsible for the graffiti in the area.