£17m to aid children’s wellbeing
AN extra £17million is to be spent on mental health support in schools and colleges.
The cash is to be invested in training staff to look out for children’s wellbeing.
It follows concern in Whitehall that time away from classrooms during lockdown has put a huge strain on youngsters.
The funding is to be announced today to mark Mental Health Awareness week.
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said: “I know how difficult the pandemic has been for many young people’s mental health, and the next few months will be crucial in supporting their recovery.
“That’s why we’re providing new funding to make experts available for support, advice and early intervention or specialist help, so every young person knows who and where to turn to as we build back better after the pandemic.”
Around 7,800 schools and colleges in England will be offered funding worth £9.5million to train a senior member of staff in mental health support skills.
A further £7million will be invested in a Wellbeing for Education Recovery to provide training, support and resources for staff dealing with youngsters experiencing trauma, anxiety, or grief.
Geoff Barton, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, said: “We’re pleased to see this investment as well as the announcement about NHS mental health support teams for schools.”
Paul Whiteman, of school leaders’ union NAHT, said: “Children are returning to school needing a wide range of pastoral, mental health and wellbeing support.”
It came as a study found that 75 per cent of parents believe the pandemic has had a negative impact on their child’s mental wellbeing.