Bitterne Manor Primary School
Mental Health and Wellbeing
We are committed to promoting positive mental health and emotional wellbeing for all pupils, staff and families. We recognise that children’s mental health is a key part of safeguarding and plays an essential role in supporting learning, development and overall wellbeing.
Our approach reflects Southampton Local Authority guidance and a whole-school commitment to early help and prevention. We aim to create a safe, supportive environment where children feel able to talk, are listened to, and know where to seek help.
We support pupils through:
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A nurturing and inclusive school ethos
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Teaching emotional wellbeing through the curriculum
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Early identification of concerns
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Pastoral and targeted emotional support
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Working in partnership with parents, carers and external agencies where appropriate
Where concerns arise regarding a child’s emotional wellbeing or mental health, we may work with external professionals to ensure appropriate support is in place. Parents and carers will be involved unless doing so would place a child at risk.
Our Mental Health Lead is Kim Abbott, and our Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) is Sam Carey, who provide additional support for pupils’ emotional wellbeing where needed.
Working with Local Mental Health Services
We work closely with a range of professional services across Southampton to ensure children and families receive the right support at the right time. These services may provide advice to school staff, work directly with children, or support families when additional help is needed.
Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS)
CAMHS is an NHS specialist service that supports children and young people aged 5–18 who may be experiencing significant emotional or mental health difficulties. They work with families, schools and other professionals to assess needs and provide specialist treatment where appropriate.
🔗 https://hampshirecamhs.nhs.uk
CAMHS provides specialist support for young people experiencing more complex or severe mental health challenges.
Mental Health in Schools Team (MHST)
The Mental Health in Schools Team works directly with schools to provide early help for children experiencing mild to moderate emotional wellbeing difficulties such as anxiety, low mood or worries. The team also supports schools to develop a whole-school approach to positive mental health.
🔗 https://hiowhealthcare.nhs.uk/our-services/a-z-list-of-services/mental-health-schools-team-southampton
MHST includes Education Mental Health Practitioners who work alongside school staff and families.
No limits (Southampton)
No Limits is a local charity offering free therapeutic and wellbeing support for children, young people and families. They provide confidential advice, counselling and early support services.
🔗 https://nolimitshelp.org.uk
Their therapeutic support services are available for children and young people aged 5–17.
Supporting Your Child's Wellbeing at Home
Simple everyday actions can help support your child’s mental health:
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Talk and listen – encourage your child to share their feelings.
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Keep routines – regular sleep and daily routines help children feel secure.
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Stay active – outdoor play and exercise support positive wellbeing.
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Praise effort – build confidence by recognising effort and progress.
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Limit screen time – balance screens with family time and play.
If you notice ongoing worries or changes in behaviour, please speak to school or your GP. Early support can make a big difference.
Below are some stories you can read with your child about worries:
- The Worrysaurus by Rachel Bright
- The Don't Worry Book by Todd Parr
- The Colour Monster by Anna Lllenas
- Everybody Worries by Jon Burgerman
- The Huge Bag Of Worries by Virginia Ironside
Other Useful Websites
https://www.healthiertogether.nhs.uk/professional
https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/children-and-young-adults/
https://www.familylives.org.uk/
Urgent Help
If you are worried about a child’s immediate safety or mental health:
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Call NHS 111 for urgent advice
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Call 999 or go to A&E in an emergency