Mental wellbeing award scheme launched in schools

It is a new part of the ongoing Health in Schools programme run by the council’s Public Health and Wellbeing team and has been influenced by the results of their last online pupil survey.

The scheme is being run with 10 schools in the area, including St. Peter's Primary, Pilning, and New Siblands, Thornbury, who have been selected based on need and data from the survey.

It is designed to address the schools’ mental health support provided for students and the teaching and learning around wellbeing.

Councillor Erica Williams, executive member for public health, said: “Mental illness has a major effect on many people.

"I’m delighted we’re able to introduce a scheme in schools to encourage and support openness, better awareness and learning around mental health and wellbeing from an early age.”

St Peter’s Primary School has introduced Jigsaw PSHE – a lesson-a-week structured programme which connects the pieces of Personal, Social and Health Education, emotional literacy, social skills and spiritual development.

Head teacher Rhys Buckley said: “At St Peter’s we aim to provide an environment for all pupils that nurtures them both as learners and individuals.

"We have noticed each year more and more of our children are showing early signs of poor mental health. We are determined to address this issue and believe that this new initiative will be a key part in enabling us to do so."

South Gloucestershire Council has also set up website Mind You (mindyou.org.uk) - an online resource to help young people look after their mental health.

The council, in partnership with the Wellbeing College and Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust (AWP), is running a World Mental Health Day community event on October 10.

It runs from 10am-2pm at The Resound Centre, Mangotsfield, with free food and refreshments.

There will be a range of taster sessions including laughter therapy and sound meditation designed to boost mental wellbeing.