A new programme is training 125 young volunteers to become mental health ambassadors in their schools.
The three-year Mental Health Ambassadors programme, which is set to launch, involves year 6 and year 9 pupils from 25 Richmond primary, secondary and SEN schools.
The programme is being delivered by Central London Community Healthcare Trust (CLCH) which has adapted the model currently used in neighbouring Kingston for schools in Richmond. It is funded by NHS South West London Integrated Care Board.
The Schools Health Programme at CLCH is working with teachers and mental health leads to co-develop bespoke action plans for the schools.
The programme will reach over 1,500 young people with schemes that promote understanding of positive mental health and improve staff and students’ confidence to talk about mental health. There will also be projects to engage young people in transforming their schools into safe spaces for learning and talking about mental health.
This is a wonderful opportunity for young people to play a central role in supporting student emotional health and wellbeing in schools.”
Sharon Mercer, director of wellbeing at Grey Court School, said: “We are delighted to hear about the introduction of the School’s Mental Health Ambassador Programme in Richmond. This is a wonderful opportunity for young people to play a central role in supporting student emotional health and wellbeing in schools.
“We know that while there are a number of highly experienced adults in school settings, young people often voice that they would like to be able to speak to other young people about their wellbeing. This programme will enable all schools to provide high quality training to young people and will ultimately help to destigmatise mental health issues and provide young people with the opportunity to be open and supportive of each other.”