Mental health and wellbeing
At Woodland Grange we aim to promote positive mental health and wellbeing to our entire school community (staff, pupils and families). We recognise the importance of maintaining good physical and mental health as well as it's effect on our total wellbeing. We want all our children to feel safe, valued and have trusted adults that they can talk to. Our Statement of Intent for Mental Health lays out how we look to develop positive mental health and wellbeing in our school community. It is found by clicking the link below:
There are many things we can all do to look after our mental wellbeing. These include:
- Building positive relationships, opening up and talking about how you feel.
- Making time for yourself, including time to relax.
- Looking after your mental health, keeping mentally active.
- Looking after your physical health.
- Getting plenty of sleep.
- Following a healthy and balanced diet.
We understand that talking about our mental health is a difficult thing to do, especially if we are struggling. Please remember: You are not alone.
Child Mental Health and Wellbeing - 10 Top Tips for Parents
Parent's Mental Health and Wellbeing - 10 Top Tips for Parents
Mental Health for Children
The mental health and wellbeing of all our pupils is something that we take very seriously at Woodland Grange. We want everyone to feel safe and secure at school. It is okay to share your feelings and worries with those around you. By talking and sharing school can help to make things better.
At the moment our everyday lives have been affected by the COVID pandemic. This has had a massive impact on our mental health. The links and information below are there to offer pupils some help, however it is important to first talk to the trusted adults at school.
Place2be
Place2be organised Children's Mental Health week (1-7 Feb 2021). The theme was 'Express Yourself' and at school we encouraged all children to talk about their feelings and the creative way we can all share our thoughts and ideas.
See the website for further information.
Further Links:
The Department for Education have put together a list of additional websites:
The NHS have put together resources and information for children and adults called 'Every Mind Matters'
The Anna Freud Foundation have set up a young persons section called 'on my mind'.
If you are concerned about the mental health of your children, Minded can help.
Young Minds have specific information in dealing with COVID.
How a child or young person reacts to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak may depend on their age, past experiences or understanding of what's happening. It's important that we know how to look after the mental health of those we care for during this time. Here are some tips:
- Listen to what your child says. How they are feeling?
- Be clear with them about what's happening. Answer their questions.
- Limit conversations about COVID. It may add to their negative feelings.
- Keep in regular contact with friends and family.
- Stay active (physically and mentally). Do things that you enjoy.
- Eat healthily.
- Get plenty of sleep. Make time to relax.
- Parents: Look after your own mental health.
from 'Every Mind Matters'
Mental Health for Adults
In order to support your child with their mental health and wellbeing, it is important that you are able to look after your own feelings and worries. 1 in 6 people report experiencing a common mental health problem (like anxiety and depression) in any given week in England (Mind). During COVID, reported cases have risen dramatically. Many more people are struggling with their own mental health. It doesn't matter how you are feeling or what worries ou may have, help is out there.
Click on the links below:
The NHS have a list of organisations that can help with mental health.
Mind is a leading charity that supports people across the UK.
Samaritans can help, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Call: 116 123
Support for families
‘You did what you knew how to do, and when you knew better, you did better.’
We know that family life can, at times, be both challenging and difficult. Being a parent is not always a smooth ride and there are many bumps along the road.
At school we aim to support and guide parents to enable them to do their best. We work hard to build positive relationships with all our parents. Whether it’s an informal meeting with a class teacher, head teacher or family support worker we want the best for our parents and pupils.
There are many situations that can have an impact on a child's life at school including bereavement and family break up. At Woodland Grange we employ an independent counsellor and have access to other resources which can support parents.
If you feel you need extra support then make an appointment at the school office. All referrals and meetings are strictly confidential.
Useful Links
Leicestershire County Council Family Steps