Wellbeing and Mental Health

Support at the College

The wellbeing of all in the College community is very important to us, and we recognise the need to promote positive mental health in one another.  Pupils spend the first part of every day with their mentor group and are encouraged to talk regularly with their mentors about how they are doing.  Mentors are a key first point of contact too for parents if they are concerned about their child.

We are proud to have an active Wellbeing Forum at the College supporting whole school approaches to wellbeing and mental health.  Any pupil can attend Forum meetings, and make a contribution to this vital area of College life.

We know that sometimes some pupils need further support, be that more intensive in-school mentoring or referral to other external services.  Pupils, and parents, may speak with their mentor or their Year Lead to explore what help might be possible.

Avenues for independent support

1  For Pupils:

Pupils may, of course, also engage directly with external services.  As a starting point we would recommend the organisations shown below. (Click on the logo to go to the website.)

	Kooth offers free, safe and anonymous online support, including discussion boards, articles and an online counselling service.
	The Mix is a UK based charity that provides free, confidential support for young people under 25 via online, social and mobile.
	ChatHealth is a local service run by Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS. It offers a secure and confidential text messaging service for young people aged 11-18. Text 07480 635 443 to start a conversation with a school nurse or emotional wellbeing practitioner.
	Childline gives information, advice and support: online, on the phone, anytime.  Explore the website or call 0800 1111.
	The Kite Trust provides wellbeing support for LGBTQ+ young people and their families in Cambridgeshire, Peterborough and surrounding areas through information, support and groups. They build inclusive communities to tackle inequalities through consultancy, training and education to all sectors.
	BEAT is the UK’s leading charity supporting those affected by eating disorders.
	Centre 33 is a Cambridge-based charity supporting young people with mental health, caring responsibilities, housing, sexual health and more.
	Keep Your Head is a Cambridgeshire and Peterborough based site bringing together up to date useful information and signposting.
	Samaritans | CALL 116 123 The Samaritans offers support for people who are struggling to cope, in times of crisis. The support line is available 24hrs a day, 365 days a year.
	TEXT ‘SHOUT’ to 85258 Shout offers free, confidential, mental health support for people of any age. Text service is available 24/7.
	Think U Know is the website for the national Crime Agency’s CEOP education team, which aims to help protect children and young people from online abuse.

2  For Parents:

For parents looking to support their child or children, we would recommend these external sites as a good starting point for information and advice:

	NSPCC is one of the UK’s leading children’s charities, running a range of services to prevent abuse, help rebuild children’s lives and support families.
	Young Minds offers parents practical advice and tips on supporting children and young people.
	John Huntingdon’s Charity is a local charity, based in the centre of Sawston. JHC offers help and advice to families around housing, grants and family support.

3  For Staff:

Staff will find more information here.