Parents and staff graduate from mental health training course at local primary school

Rackham Primary School in Ely recently held a graduation ceremony for the 36 parents and staff that completed a Level 2 mental health training programme. The programme was designed to help adults identify and cope with children who are struggling.

Last year YMCA Trinity Group secured £50,000 from the Opportunity Area Programme to deliver a range of mental health training to teachers and early year providers to bring together primary and secondary schools across Fenland and East Cambridgeshire to increase their confidence in dealing with mental health issues.

With a staggering one in eight children having a diagnosable mental health condition. YMCA Trinity Group recognised the need to better equip parents and staff to help support the wellbeing of children and young people. This particular training covered a range of topics including the legislation and guidance surrounding mental health, risk factors, how to build resilience and the impact of mental health.

Ryan Armes, Mental Health & Education Manager at YMCA Trinity Group added: “Mental health is a growing concern across the country, with 50% of young people’s mental health conditions starting before they are 14 years old.

“It was great to bring everyone together in front of all the children at Rackham Primary School to celebrate all their achievements and draw attention to the importance of this programme”.

Nadhim Zahawi, Children and Families Minister said: “It was fantastic to see so many parents and staff at The Rackham Primary School get the skills, knowledge and tools they need to support young people’s mental health throughout school and as they navigate an ever more complex world.”

Tricia Pritchard, Chair of the Fenland and East Cambridgeshire Opportunity Area Partnership Board, commented: “Strengthening the effectiveness of support for children and young people with mental health concerns is a key priority in the Opportunity Area’s delivery plan. The emotional well-being of children and young people plays an important role in enabling them to thrive, achieve and fulfil their potential. I am, therefore, delighted that so many parents and staff members from schools have already accessed and positively responded to the training that YMCA Trinity Group has delivered.”

More information on the mental health support in schools offered by YMCA Trinity Group, which also includes counselling for students, staff and parents; plus campaigns and a NHS approved self-help app.