Mental Health and Wellbeing

At Longdendale High School, we recognise that positive mental health and wellbeing are an important part of every student’s learning and development. We are committed to creating a supportive, caring environment where students feel valued, listened to and able to seek help when they need it. We encourage positive wellbeing and help students develop the confidence and skills they need to look after themselves and each other.

How We Support Our Students

• Guidance and Information: All students receive mental health and wellbeing information through curriculum learning, PSHE lessons, and themed assemblies led by school staff and external specialists.

• Form Tutors and Heads of Year: Speak to your Form Tutor or Head of Year who will support you and help signpost where possible.

• Inclusion Team: Our Inclusion Team are ready to support you with any barriers that arise.

• Student Leaders: Peer support is available from our Student Leaders at the start of the day, during breaks, and at lunchtimes if you would like to chat to them.

• Miss Hamilton - Mental Health Officer: Miss Hamilton conducts initial assessments to determine the best level of support for students. She can direct families to external agencies or provide in-school interventions. She is also a trained Mental Health First Aider, offering initial support and further specialist referrals if needed.

• Pastoral Team: Working with Miss Hamilton, the Pastoral Team supports students with self-esteem building, managing strong feelings, exam stress, and resilience.

• SEND Team: For students with long-standing mental health conditions, Miss Hamilton and the SEND team work together to provide additional resources and support.

• Mental Health Support Team: Our Education Mental Health Practitioner attends school weekly to provide 1:1 or group support to students who are presenting with mild to moderate mental health needs, such as anxiety and low mood. Referrals can be made through Miss Hamilton. Please note that there may be a waiting time for this service. 

Useful Contacts

For those who require support from external agencies the following support is available:

• Text Shout to 85258 for the suicide prevention text service.

• Young Minds: Offers a free, 24/7 crisis support text service across the UK. Text YM to 85258.

• Your GP

• kooth.com - Free Online counselling service 12-10pm weekdays and 6pm-10pm weekends.

• Off the Record Young Peoples Counselling, Clarendon Square, Hyde - Drop In Wednesday 3-6pm (just drop in for a chat) or phone 0161 355 3553 (self referral).

• The Hive Katherine St. Ashton under Lyne 0161 330 9223 - Drop in 4-8pm every Wed.

• Anthony Seddon Fund, 12 George Street, Ashton under Lyne - 0161 376 4439 or Thursday 4-7pm drop-in, including refreshments.

• 42nd Street, Manchester - 0161 228 1888 (can self refer)

• CALM - Campaign against living miserably for males experiencing Mental Health Issues - Freephone 0800 585858, www.thecalmzone.net

• Themix.org.uk - Chat/text support and helpline number on website

Family Support

We recognise the stress families may face and can direct them to the best external services, including local Early Help services.

Family guide to getting emotional wellbeing and mental health advice and support