Mental health is a state of wellbeing in which every individual realises his or her own potential, can cope with normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community. At Normandy Village School, we are committed to supporting the positive mental health and wellbeing of every member of our school community (children, staff, parents and carers).

South Farnham Educational Trust has a Staff Wellbeing Policy which is intended to outline the ways in which senior leaders and employees can work together to enhance staff health and wellbeing, ensuring that the school is a safe, caring and positive place to work (see the School Policies section of the website).  We are committed to promoting the positive mental, physical and emotional wellbeing of our staff and recognise that enhancing individual wellbeing offers benefits not just to our staff but also our pupils and the wider community. 

Children 

We endeavour to ensure that children are able to manage times of change and stress in their lives and aim to ensure that they are supported to reach their potential or to access help when they need it. We use both universal, whole school approaches and specialised, targeted approaches for individuals. We also recognise our role in ensuring that children learn about what they can do to maintain positive mental health, what affects their mental health, how they can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues, and where they can go if they need help and support.

Parents

At Normandy Village School we know that everyone experiences life challenges that can make us vulnerable and at times, anyone may need additional emotional support. We take the view that positive mental health is everybody’s responsibility and that we all have a role to play. 

Staff

Various support mechanisms are available to employees and these are periodically reviewed.

The following are currently available:

• Access to occupational health support through our provider, offering independent, impartial advice on the effects of work on an employee’s health and vice versa.
• The Trust has also appointed in each school a Wellbeing Lead. These individuals are responsible for:
  • The promotion of wellbeing, including distribution of information;
  • Signposting relevant health and wellbeing services to line managers and employees;
  • Reporting to the Headteacher or Trust Board on wellbeing issues and initiatives.