Supporting our children’s wellbeing and mental health

There may be any number of reasons why a young person might experience challenges with negative emotions and mental health.  We believe the conversations about healthy minds and emotions should be ongoing and part of everyday discussion; we know at any given time a student might feel anxious, worried or upset, they might be dealing with a difficult situation or bereavement.  I therefore wanted to ensure parents/carers know of the services that are available, and especially that many of these can be accessed 24/7.

We would recommend you do have active and continuing conversations with your child around positive mental health and where they might go for any information, advice and support if they need it; the following are some excellent local services we want to make sure you and your child know about:

Childline

Childline offers free and confidential support for children and you people up to the age of 19.  This is a 24/7 service.

Tel: 0800 1111

Kooth

A free, safe and anonymous space for young people to find online support and counselling.

Website: https://www.kooth.com/

Young Minds

For young people: Text YM to 85258

shout provides free, 24/7 text support for young people across the UK experiencing a mental health crisis

Parents Helpline: For detailed advice, emotional support and signposting about a child or young person up to the age of 25

Tel: 0808 802 5544 (Monday-Friday 9.30 - 4.00pm)

Overall, we have a supportive and open culture around mental health in our school and we also want parents, carers and students to know that this support is also available outside of school in the wider community,  so if anyone does need any extra help, it is always available during school hours, evenings, weekends and during the holidays.

Please do not hesitate in contacting school if you have any questions/queries or if you have any concerns that you think school should be aware of.