Mental Health Statement
“Mental Health is 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.”
(World Health Organisation 2014)
Did you know that in the last 3 years the likelihood of mental health issues has increased by 50%?
Did you know that 3-5 pupils in every class are likely to have a mental health issue?
At Roydon Primary, we aim to promote positive mental health and well-being for our whole school community – children, staff, parents and carers. We recognise that mental health and emotional wellbeing is just as important as physical health. If children have mental health issues, it is likely to affect their overall wellbeing, learning, progress and achievements.
We believe that having a mentally healthy community is not about being happy all the time, as that is not real life; it is about working together through challenging and difficult times, as well as sharing celebrations and successes. We recognise that people need to feel supported, heard, accepted, valued and empowered.
We aim to promote positive health and endeavour to help our children to:
- build emotional resilience
- develop their confidence and self esteem
- learn how to deal with their emotions
- to develop their social skills
- feel valued and part of our school community
All staff have a responsibility to promote the mental health of pupils, but staff with a specific remit are:
- Senior Mental Health Lead – Cassie Davies
- Designated Safeguarding Leads – Sarah Bradford, Cassie Davies, Katharine Walsh, Ann Plowman
- Pastoral Teaching Assistant – Zoë Feavearyear
- Parent Support Advisor – Simon Andrew
- Children’s Counsellor – Stacey Howe
Different levels of support are provided for all children depending on their age and need. This may include class work in PSHE lessons, assemblies, colouring club and role play, as well as one-to-one support through ELSA sessions, Drawing & Talking and Sand Play.
We encourage children to talk to any member of staff about issues that are worrying them; staff may be approached directly or children post concerns in a “worry box”. We want children to feel safe and able to express their feelings knowing they won’t be judged.
We recognise that staff in school cannot act as mental health experts and should not make diagnoses However, we are committed to ensuring that a clear strategy is in place to assist the identification of mental health problems and support any pupils or staff members experiencing difficulties to access appropriate support.