By 2025, the government wants a certified Mental Health Lead to be in place at every school. To support this, they are offering a £1,200 grant for a senior member of school staff to access quality-assured training, such as that offered by TT Education. Settings can access the funding until 31st March 2024.
Whether you’re already on your journey or are yet to start in this role, this guide will help you navigate the path to senior mental health leadership:
The foundation of your journey lies in a deep-rooted passion for mental health. Delve into the intricacies of human psychology to gain an understanding of the spectrum of mental health challenges and the resilience that emerges from navigating them. Immerse yourself in the latest research, stay abreast of emerging trends, and seek opportunities to expand your knowledge through professional development programmes and workshops.
Equip yourself with the skills necessary to effectively support students, teachers and the wider school community. Develop strong counselling and communication skills, enabling you to connect with students on an empathetic level, actively listen to their concerns, and offer guidance and support tailored to their individual needs.
Familiarise yourself with the school’s mental health policies and procedures, including protocols for crisis intervention, referrals, and confidentiality. This will ensure you are aligned with the school’s vision for mental health support.
The field of mental health is constantly evolving, demanding a commitment to lifelong learning. Engage in professional development opportunities, attend workshops, and participate in conferences to expand your knowledge and refine your skills. Additionally, nurture your own emotional wellbeing through self-care practices like mindfulness, exercise and relaxation techniques.
Mental health is a shared responsibility, requiring collaboration with the entire school community. Engage with teachers to integrate mental health awareness into the curriculum, providing students with the knowledge and skills to manage stress, anxiety and depression. Collaborate with parents to address mental health concerns at home and promote a consistent approach to supporting students’ emotional wellbeing.
As a mental health lead, it is crucial to prioritise your own wellbeing to effectively support others. Establish healthy boundaries between work and personal life, engaging in regular self-care practices such as exercise, mindfulness, and pursuing hobbies that bring you joy. Seek support from colleagues, mentors and professional networks when needed.
Remember, the journey of a mental health lead is a continuous process of learning, growth, and dedication. Embrace the challenges, cherish the triumphs, and never lose sight of the profound impact you are making on the emotional wellbeing of students.
As you embark on this rewarding path, know that you are not alone, particularly if you train through TT Education. Our National Network of Senior Mental Health Leads will provide you with a supportive community of colleagues, mentors and peers, ready to guide and encourage you along the way.