| The World Health Organisation defines mental health as a state of wellbeing in which every individual achieves their potential, copes with the normal stresses of life, works productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to their community. Mental health includes our emotional, psychological and social wellbeing. It affects how we think, feel and act. Good mental health and wellbeing is just as important as good physical health. Like physical health, mental health can range across a spectrum from healthy to unwell; it can fluctuate on a daily basis and change over time. At Taverham VC CE Junior School, we aim to promote to promote positive mental health and wellbeing for our whole school community. We recognise that children’s mental health is a crucial factor in their overall wellbeing and can affect their learning and achievement. Our aim is to help develop the protective factors which build resilience to mental health problems and be a school where: · all pupils are valued · pupils have a sense of belonging and feel safe · pupils feel able to talk openly with trusted adults about their problems without feeling any stigma · positive mental health is promoted and valued · bullying is not tolerated These factors are embedded in the school’s aims under the theme of ‘Learning for a fuller life.’ Mental health doesn’t mean being happy all the time and neither does it mean avoiding stresses altogether. One of the most important ways to help your child is to listen to them and take their feelings seriously. In many instances, children and young people’s negative feelings and worries usually pass with the support of their parents and families. Coping and adjusting to setbacks are critical life skills for children, just as they are for adults, but it is important that they develop positive, rather than negative, coping skills. We offer different levels of support at school: Universal Support – To meet the needs of all our pupils through our overall ethos and our wider curriculum. For example; holding wellbeing assemblies, celebrating mental health days and weeks and through our RSHE curriculum Additional support – For those who may have short term needs and those who may have been made vulnerable by life experiences such as bereavement. Targeted support – For pupils who need more differentiated support and resources or specific targeted interventions either in school or through external agencies As well as supporting children it is important for adults to recognise when they are struggling. We encourage parents and carers to come and talk to us if things are tough. Parents and carers can’t support their children if they are not looking after themselves. If we can’t help, we may be able to suggest other agencies which can, so do get in touch with us at school if you feel you or your child needs some emotional support. Useful links (Click the red text to be taken to the website) Just One Norfolk Just One Norfolk is the ‘go to’ health website for families, which includes lots of advice and support for emotional health Ormiston Families Ormiston families provide a range of services to promote positive mental health in children and families across the East of England. Ormiston also offer a resource for parents/carers to support children who may be self harming. * Nelsons Journey Nelson’s journey supports children and young people in Norfolk who have experienced the death of a significant person. Norfolk Community Directory Norfolk Community Directory contains activities, services and groups to help all Norfolk residents live healthy, active and fulfilling lives. Norfolk County Council Information and advice for adults struggling with mental health issues in Norfolk Qwell Qwell is a service for adults (26+) that has recently been commissioned in Norfolk and Waveney. It offers digital counselling and an emotional wellbeing service for any adult. Anna Freud Anna Freud provide advice and guidance to parents and carers who may be supporting a child or young person who may be struggling with poor mental health. Childline The childline website has a wealth of advice for children affected by mental health issues. The website is accessible to children and includes lots of helpful ideas as well as free and confidential phone and online support lines to children in need. It also includes a ‘calm zone’ section with breathing exercises, activities, games and videos to help let go of stress. NHS Every Mind Matters This NHS website has expert advice and practical tips to help look after both adults and child mental health and wellbeing Mind Mind is National Mental Health Charity who won’t give up until everyone experiencing a mental health problem gets support and respect. They provide advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. They campaign to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding. YoungMinds Young Minds is the UK’s leading charity committed to improving the emotional well-being and mental health of children and young people and empowering their parents and carers. You can find a confidential parents helpline, info about their campaigns, their publications and help and guidance for children & young people. |
