Some children may find it harder to attend school than others, and can face several barriers. This can include pupils who have long-term mental health difficulties or who have special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Absence or reduced attendance can sometimes be rooted in emotional, mental health or wellbeing issues.

Although absence can be a complex issue, school staff can support children by focusing on the specific needs of individuals as part of a whole-school approach to mental health and wellbeing.

School staff work together in partnership with children, their families and other agencies to provide support.

If your child is struggling, please contact their class teacher.  The links to external resources below, may also help you and your child:

NHS - Is my child too ill for school?

NHS - Anxiety in children 

BBC Bitesize - School anxiety and refusal: how parents can help

Young Minds - supporting your child with school anxiety and refusal 

Urgent Mental Health Support:

CHILDLINE:  For children and young people under 19. Call 0800 1111 – the number will not show up on your phone bill.

SHOUT:  The UK’s first 24/7 crisis text service, provides free, confidential, 24/7 text message support in the UK for anyone who is struggling to cope. Text SHOUT to 85258. This service is free on all major mobile networks, for anyone in crisis, anytime.

CAP (central access point):  Anyone needing mental health support for themselves or others can call this service on 0808 800 3302, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

SAMARITANS:  Support line available 24/7, 365 days a year, free calls. Call 116 123.

Further reading/ useful websites:

https://www.healthforteens.co.uk/growing-up/starting-a-new-school/ 

https://www.healthforkids.co.uk/feelings/supporting-your-move-from-primary-to-secondary-school/

https://stem4.org.uk/

https://www.youngminds.org.uk/

Tellmi: is an early digital mental health service for anyone over the age of 11, free of charge. You can visit the Tellmi website or download the app from your phone’s app store.  https://www.tellmi.help/

Recommended apps

Headspace- Mindfulness app   https://www.headspace.com

Clear Fear- Anxiety support app  https://www.clearfear.co.uk/