Emotional health and wellbeing is a very varied and complex area and there are no quick fix solutions. Maintaining every day, regular routines wherever possible, such as, attending school and lessons whilst working towards managing mental health is key. School offers a range of services to help children develop positive mental health and wellbeing and support those experiencing mental health issues. These are:
- All staff support positive emotional health and wellbeing across school.
- Staff are able to spot changes in behaviour that might indicate a problem and offer support and guidance. Many things can cause a change in mental health including traumatic events (e.g. loss or separation, life changes, abuse, domestic violence or bullying).
- Several staff members are trained to deliver ‘Connecting with Children’ listening therapies to support children experiencing emotional difficulties and mental health issues.
- Counsellor who offers a ‘go to’ service for children experiencing mental health issues.
- Curriculum includes mental health topics in order to raise awareness and understanding and provide strategies for developing positive emotional health and wellbeing and managing mental health.
- Curriculum has the flexibility to focus on developing children’s resilience, confidence and ability to learn.
- Constructive links with outside support and specialist agencies (e.g. school nurse, counsellors, CAMHS, Piece of Mind Team- NHS) to provide interventions for those with mental health problems.