Ways to help at home
The YoungMinds Crisis Messenger text service provides free, 24/7 crisis support across the UK. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis and need support, you can text YM to 85258.
We know that finding the right support is important, especially if you need someone to talk to right now. We aim to connect every texter to a trained volunteer promptly to provide crisis help. They will listen to you and help you think more clearly, enabling you to know that you can take the next step to feeling better. It is free and confidential to text our service from the following major networks: EE, O2, Three and Vodafone.
Solar is available for support where there are concerns about emotional well-being/mental health. Both professionals and parents can refer children to Solar. Parent Guides to helping your child with anxiety are available Solar Services
The Youth Wellbeing Directory provides a list of free local and national organisations for anyone up to the age of 25, along with important information you may find helpful. There is a self-care section providing 90+ strategies to help support those feeling low or anxious during the coronavirus pandemic.
You're Never Too Young To Talk Mental Health
Kooth provides a free, safe and anonymous way for young people to receive advice and support online for all young people aged 11-25 years in Solihull. Staffed by fully trained and qualified team members and available until 10pm each night 365 days a year can offer emotional support with a wide range of issues from having a bad day to more serious issues such as bullying, stress and anxiety.
Kooth Parent and Carer Brochure
Our school nurse recommends using the following:
Meet Ollee, a virtual friend developed by Parent Zone and funded by BBC Children in Need’s A Million & Me. Aimed at 8-11 year olds and their parents, Ollee helps families talk about difficult topics.
Health for kids has a super fun resource area for children and a resource area for parents and carers. This offers a wealth of information to help you support your children to be healthy and happy as they grow. Find top tips and advice on all aspects of children’s emotional and physical health, from keeping kids active and eating well, to building their confidence and equipping them to cope with specific health issues. Click here to enter the site: Health for Kids
Other useful Websites
Transition from Year 6 to Secondary School
BBC Bitesize Parent Video: Supporting Your Child's TransitionDr Radha Modgil gives her advice on how to best prepare your child practically and emotionally for the start of secondary school.
BBC Bitesize Videos for Children: Starting Secondary School. A range of videos covering different topics for transition to secondary; making friendships, managing feelings and online safety and much more!