Little Lever School

Mental health concerns amongst young people have risen in recent years. Whilst we don’t know the exact cause for this, we know we can do something about it. We all have mental health. This can change on a daily basis and impact what we do and don’t do.

Life’s natural struggle will always play a big part in out mental health. This happens more so in the formative years of childhood than at any other point.

Put simply, mental health becomes a concern when we are unable to have the resilience to deal with the natural barriers that life might put in our way.

We know that the rates of mental health problems increase as children get older. Almost two in 10 students aged 11 to 16 has an identifiable mental health condition.

If you feel that your child is struggling with any aspect of their mental health, your first port of call is to have a conversation with a your child’s Learning Leader or a member of the safeguarding team. They will try and help you to respond to the needs of your child.

Mental Health and Attendance

For the vast majority of students, medical professionals agree that the best place for them is in school. Here they can receive social interaction with their peers, a sense of purpose and belonging, a regular routine, pastoral support, and professional support if needed.

You can find out more about attendance on our attendance page.

Support in School

We actively teach about mental health in our Life Chances curriculum and have an open and honest culture where students are confident to talk about it without fear or judgement.

We have two Senior Mental Health leads in school:

Mr S. Reynolds
Mrs J. May

Alongside this we have: a dedicated pastoral team of Learning Leaders who will offer support; bespoke Mental Health interventions in our HUB and Mountain Rescue areas; a sensory room; reasonable adjustments for students who require additional support in school; external professionals including school counsellors and a drama therapist; listening groups; and close working relationships with a range of other outside agencies.

Where can I get further support for my child?

Local

Bolton Lads & Girls Club

Bolton Lads and Girls Club offer a range of different services for young people including support around lower-level mental health general wellbeing building resilience self-confidence and self-esteem.

Be Kind To My Mind

Bekindtomymind is a Bolton campaign to help reduce the stigma around mental health. Our local message to children and young people who are struggling with their mental health is that “it’s ok to talk!”

National and Online

Kooth – https://www.kooth.com/

Shout – giveusashout.org

Childline – For Me | Childline

Your GP will also be able to offer more advice and support. You can also receive advice by phoning 111.

If you believe your child to have suicidal thoughts or be at immediate risk, you should phone 999 or visit your nearest Accident and Emergency department.

Adult Mental Health

We know mental health concerns can impact anybody. Your GP will be able to provide support and guidance on mental health concerns and there are a range of local and national organisations that can help.

If you would like to talk about your own mental health in relation to your child at school then you can contact our safeguarding team who will support you. We have listed some of the organisations we work with to support families.

There is a 24/7 Helpline for regional and national support services:

Greater Manchester Mental Health (GMMH) 24/7 Helpline

0800 953 0285

Crisis Care | Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS FT

Local Support

BIG in Mental Health (Bury Involvement Group)

BIG also known as Bury Involvement Group is a local charity for people aged 18 and over who are experiencing mental health conditions. No referral is required you can just turn up at groups. Although based in Bury people from any area can attend BIG. We are a strong independent voice in mental health.

Bury Involvement Group – BIG in mental health | Mental Health Awareness & Support in Bury

Bereavement Café

Jane who has dealt with family bereavement runs a support group for young people and families. You can email: info@thebereavementcafe.co.uk

The Bereavement Café | Supporting People Through Their Grief (thebereavementcafe.co.uk)

National Support

Mind – provide advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem.

Hub of Hope – is the UK’s leading mental health support database. It is provided by national mental health charity Chasing the Stigma and brings local national peer community charity private and NHS mental health support and services together in one place for the first time.

Safeguarding

Mental Health and Wellbeing