Mental health is a state of wellbeing in which every individual realises their own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to their community.
At Cansfield we aim to promote positive mental health for every member of our staff and student body. We pursue this aim using both universal, whole school approaches and specialised, targeted approaches offering personalised support. In addition to promoting positive mental health, we aim to recognise and respond to mental health issues. By developing and implementing practical, relevant and effective mental health policies and procedures, we can promote a safe and stable environment for students affected both directly and indirectly by mental health issues.
At Cansfield we actively and constantly provide positive mental health support for all members of the school community. We have:
- Trained two members of staff as Senior Mental Health Leaders: Dr Baker and Mr Swain.
- Appointed a Designated Senior Lead for Mental Health (DSL-MH): Mr Swain (Senior Assistant Headteacher).
- Appointed a Governor for Mental Health and wellbeing (MHWB): Mrs Codling.
- Trained 27 members of staff, from across all aspects of school life as Mental Health First Aiders (MHFA).
- Organised mental health training for all staff and governors.
- Offered two sessions for all parents on mental health awareness.
- Appointed a student Parliament committee that focuses on mental health and wellbeing.
- Delivered assemblies to students, raising the profile of mental health and how to access support.
- Planned our curriculum development to include aspects of mental health.
- Planned form time activities about mental health to ensure positive mental health is high on our priority.
- Arranged with CAMHS to work with our school on a regular basis (including our own CAMHS link worker) and support staff who work with pupils.
- Arranged a review and audit of our current provision with an outside expert on mental health issues.
- Established a staff working party for mental health.
- Appointed a full-time, on-site counsellor through Child Action Northwest.
- Created extracurricular opportunities in the morning to ensure that all students can have a positive start to the day.
- Raised the profile of mental health and wellbeing by celebrating key dates such as Hello Yellow day and mental health week.
