Mental Health Support at St. Michael's

Did you know that more than one in 10 primary school children aged five to 10 has an identifiable mental health condition? That’s around three children in every class.
 

While rates of mental ill health do increase as children get older, early intervention is key to giving young people the best start in life. We know that primary schools have a vital role to play in supporting children’s mental health – teaching them the skills they need to recognise and deal with their emotions, and helping those with difficulties get the support they need.
 

At St Michael’s we aim to promote positive mental health and we are working hard to respond to the needs of our pupils and develop a whole school approach to mental health and wellbeing.
 

As you may be aware, mental ill health amongst young people is a significant and rising problem. We are striving to meet these challenges and have a number of strategies and procedures to support our young people. If you would like to speak to the Designated Lead for Mental Health please contact: Mr Richard Smith

ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistant)

Sometimes, children and young people in schools may be facing life challenges that detract from their ability to engage fully with learning. Some will require greater support to increase their emotional literacy than others. ELSA is an initiative developed and supported by educational psychologists to support children with this. It recognises that children learn better and are happier in school if their emotional needs are also addressed.

We are lucky enough to have a qualified Emotional Literacy Support Assistant at St Michael's. Mrs Paige has been trained by the Educational Psychology team to plan and deliver programmes of support to pupils who are experiencing temporary or longer term additional emotional needs. The majority of ELSA work is delivered on an individual basis, but occasionally, some group work is more appropriate, especially in the areas of social and friendship skills.
 

There are many emotional areas that ELSA can help with, including:

• Social Skills
• Anxiety
• Social Situations
• Therapeutic Stories
• Anger Management
• Self-esteem
• Real-life problem-solving skills
• Friendship

Supporting Your Child

For more information on the different ways in which we support your child(ren) here at St. Michael's follow this link.

Mental Health - Useful Links & Contacts

Barnardo's 

Everyone has mental health and sometimes you can struggle with how you feel. You’re not alone and help is available. Barnardo's offer lots of services to help you look after your mental health. This can include help in school, play therapy, or counselling.

Barnardo's can help you by simply clicking the link: Find local mental health support, starting with Barnardo's | Barnardo’s | Online mental health support for young people (barnardos.org.uk)

Happy Maps

HappyMaps gives help to parents for children’s mental health – support for parents and children from preschool to young adult.
 

Worried about your child’s mental health, behaviour or wellbeing? We’ve pooled some of the best resources and advice in one place. Find recommended books, websites, Apps , how to find counselling, when to see your GP , and information about Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services. 

To visit the Happy Maps website Home - HappyMaps: Help and Resources for Children's Mental Health

Young Minds - Fighting for Young People's Mental Health

“We’re leading the fight for a future where all young minds are supported and empowered, whatever the challenges. We’re here to make sure they get the best possible mental health support and have the resilience to overcome life’s difficulties.”

Whether you want to understand more about how you're feeling and find ways to feel better, or you want to support someone who's struggling, Young Minds can help.

Parents Helpline: 0808-802-5544  

Got to the Young Minds website by clicking: YoungMinds | Mental Health Charity For Children And Young People | YoungMinds

Beat Eating Disorders
 

Beat is the UK’s eating disorder charity. We exist to end the pain and suffering caused by eating disorders. We are a champion, guide and friend to anyone affected, giving individuals experiencing an eating disorder and their loved ones.

Visit the Beat website by clicking the link: The UK's Eating Disorder Charity - Beat (beateatingdisorders.org.uk)

Childline

ChildLine is a confidential service for children and young people up to the age of nineteen; children can contact a ChildLine counsellor about anything – no problem is too big or too small – call free, have a 1-2-1 chat online or send an email.  Parents/carers can get information and support in relation to issues such as suicidal thoughts and self-harm through their partner organisation NSPCC. 

Telephone:  0800 1111 (children) 
Telephone: 0808 800 5000 (for parents & professionals, open 24/7)

Every Mind Matters

Every Mind Matters is a Public Health England NHS website full of practical tips and support for mental health wellbeing. EMM will help you manage and maintain your mental health, as good mental health makes such a difference. It helps us to relax more, achieve more and enjoy our lives more. 

To visit the Every Mind Matters Website click on this link: Every Mind Matters - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

The Charlie Waller Memorial Trust
 

The Charlie Waller Memorial Trust enables people to understand and talk openly about depression, stay mentally well and access appropriate treatment.

To visit the website, click on the following link: Charlie Waller Trust, mental health charity

Boys In Mind

Boys in Mind strongly believe that by understanding and addressing the particular barriers boys and young men face and challenging unhelpful notions of what it means to be a man we can begin to improve male mental health and ultimately reduce male suicide rates. They aim to reduce the stigma and isolation which often exists for boys and young men.

To visit their website click on the following link: Boys in Mind – Helping to reduce mental health stigma among boys and young men