Video Interaction Guidance (VIG) in Norfolk
What is VIG?
VIG is a therapeutic intervention that uses short video clips to highlight and build on attuned moments in interaction. It can be used within any relationship, e.g. for parents, school staff and professionals. The VIG practitioner guides the parent / professional according to their own goals and hopes for a better future in their relationships. It is strengths-based in that it helps caregivers and professionals become more aware of what they’re already doing well and how to build on that to improve sensitivity and mentalisation within relationships. They can discover new stories about themselves and their relationships.
Where and when is VIG used?
The principles of VIG can be applied within any relationship. It is effective with parents and carers of children across all ages. It is also used to support professionals in their roles. VIG is used in a variety of contexts, including health settings, early years, schools, social care, universities, outdoor education etc.
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Having a baby and raising a child is an exciting, yet stressful and challenging time. Many parents often lack confidence in what they are doing. It is easy to feel that there must be a ‘right’ way. You may be asking yourself:
“Am I a good-enough parent?”
“Why don’t I feel a bond with my baby/child?”
“Why does my baby/child behave in this way? I just don’t understand.”
“How can I have more fun with my baby/child?”
“Have I got enough to give to more than one child?”
“They just shut me out, how do I reach them?”
“Everything I do feels wrong. How do I break this pattern of constant battles?”
VIG can be particularly useful:
When parents or carers are feeling stuck, rejected or overwhelmed but wish to connect more with their child
Families with a history of trauma, loss, or attachment disruption. Therefore, with a subsequent need to build or rebuild trust and confidence in the caregiving role.
Parents of children who are non-verbal, withdrawn, or highly distressed.
While suitable across age groups, VIG is especially helpful for young children or those with developmental, emotional, or behavioural challenges.
When talk-based support alone hasn’t been enough and the assistance of video feedback might be helpful.
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VIG is used to promote parental or foster carer attunement to their child. Although useful for all families, as illustrated above, VIG is an effective intervention for families on the edge of care, under a Child in Need or Child Protection plan, and for foster or adoptive families.
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The principles of how VIG is used with parents and carers is applied in the school context. It is used to promote staff attunement to pupils (including children with special needs), or for staff teams, to promote well-being for staff and pupils, and to support children who have experienced neglect and/or trauma.
What are the benefits of VIG?
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Strengthening emotional connection between parent and child.
Boosting parental confidence and emotional availability.
Improving the child’s sense of safety, responsiveness and engagement.
Enhancing communication and reducing tension or misattunement.
VIG is not about judging parenting, but about offering support and insight using real-life moments that feel positive, meaningful and safe.
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Building reflective practice - professionals gain new insight into their communication and relationships through video-based reflections.
Strengthening skills and confidence - focussing on what is working well helps staff recognise and grow their effective strategies.
Improving relationships - more attuned and responsive interactions with children, families and professionals / colleagues.
Supporting organisational culture - fosters collaboration, reduces blame, and enhances staff wellbeing.
Parent / carer’s positive experiences of VIG
What is the VIG process?
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1. Initial consultation & planning
I will meet with you to discuss your concerns, hopes, and expectations of VIG. Together we will negotiate a ‘helping question’ linked to your goal and agree practical arrangements.
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2. Filming
I will take a video of 10 – 15 minutes of interaction (e.g. a parent and child may engage in play or an activity). This may be at home, school or my private practice.
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3. Editting
I edit the video to create brief clips of attuned moments, where things are going better than usual in your interaction, and you are moving towards your goals.
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4. Shared review
We meet and review the clips together, exploring what we notice and what you are doing that is making a difference and helping you reach your goal.
The above process represents a full cycle of VIG. Usually at least 4 cycles or more are completed, followed by a review of the work as a whole and discussion of next steps.
Fee for private clients:
Initial consultation & planning (usually online) - £110
1 cycle (filming, editing and shared review) - £250 (+ £45 per hour travel)
Final review and next steps - free with 4+ cycles
Fee for professional and public services:
Initial consultation & planning (usually online) - £110
1 cycle (filming, editing and shared review) - £300 (+ £45 per hour travel)
Final review and next steps - free with 4+ cycles