Mental Health and Wellbeing
The World Health Organisation defines mental health as ‘a state of well-being in which every individual realises his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community’.
We aim to give all pupils the skills, knowledge and understanding to keep themselves and others physically and mentally healthy and safe. These skills are taught using age appropriate discussions as part of our personal development programme and PSHE curriculum.
We work hard to promote the health and well-being of all our pupils in school as we have a duty to help and support them to be resilient and mentally healthy.
We are aware that children can experience a range of events both happy and sad throughout their time at school. Staff at school are sensitive and skilled at working with children who may have experienced loss or separation, life changes such as moving house, a birth of a sibling and events of a traumatic nature.
In addition, we work closely with parents, carers and other professionals to provide timely interventions to meet mental health needs.
If you have a concern please speak to your child’s class teacher in the first instance. We also have a trained counsellor in school and our Family Support Worker Diana West also works with children and their families.
Useful websites:
Childline:
Childline’s website has a useful ‘calm down’ zone, with activities which aim to help children feel better when they are feeling anxious, scared or sad. The ideas include breathing exercises, a ‘let it go’ box and creating a ‘sense drawer’. https://www.childline.org.uk/toolbox/calm-zone/
A Million and Me:
‘As part of BBC Children In Need’s national programme around children and young people’s mental health, we’re developing support for parents and carers of 8 to 13 year olds.’ Look at this website for more information:
https://youngminds.org.uk/youngminds-professionals/our-projects/a-million-and-me/
Place2Be:
The following website has lots of practical tips to support children’s mental health and well being.
Place2Be: Parenting Smart: Articles
Children and Young People Services
In addition, you may wish to contact Newcastle Children and Young People Services (CYPS) on 0191 246 6913, or alternatively email: NGCYPS@cntw.nhs.uk
