WALES: Welsh Schoolchildren to Receive Early Help with Mental Health Problems
October 13, 2017
The Welsh government is establishing a new initiative that will provide children with help for mental health problems at school. Child and adolescent mental health services practitioners will give teachers assistance and advice for supporting students who are experiencing problems such as anxiety, depressed mood, self-harm, or conduct disorders. Recent research in England indicates that mental health challenges among girls in particular are on the rise, and many teachers do not feel able to support students who are struggling. The pilot program will start by the end of the year in more than 200 Welsh schools and conclude in 2020, after which it could be extended nationwide. According to Health Secretary Vaughan Gething, “This [initiative] will ensure children, teachers and others charged with caring for children in our schools, receive support to promote good emotional and mental health. It will help identify and address issues early, helping to prevent more serious problems occurring later in life.”
Spark Extra! Learn how teachers can help promote mental health and prevent suicide among students.