Mental Health & Well-Being
SMILE
At Dorridge Primary we adopt the SMILE approach which underpins all we do. This is to enable the children to understand the importance of wellbeing and ways in which they can support their own mental health and well-being.
We celebrate Children's Mental Health Week in February. This also coincides with our Charity Fortnight when the children opt to run a half or full marathon over the course of two weeks to promote the 'M' in the Smile approach.
Their mission: "To make sure that all young people can get the mental health support they need, when they need it, no matter what." Each year in October school take part in Young Minds #HelloYellow campaign to support children's mental health in conjunction with World Mental Health Day. In 2021 we also raised an additional £3752 as part of our Charity Fortnight in the Spring Term.
The YoungMinds Crisis Messenger text service provides free, 24/7 crisis support across the UK. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis and need support, you can text YM to 85258.
We know that finding the right support is important, especially if you need someone to talk to right now. We aim to connect every texter to a trained volunteer promptly to provide crisis help. They will listen to you and help you think more clearly, enabling you to know that you can take the next step to feeling better.
It is free and confidential to text our service from the following major networks:
EE, O2, Three and Vodafone.
Solar is available for support where there are concerns about emotional well-being/mental health. Both professionals and parents can refer children to Solar. Parent Guides to helping your child with anxiety are available 
Solar Services
The Youth Wellbeing Directory provides a list of free local and national organisations for anyone up to the age of 25, along with important information you may find helpful. There is a self-care section providing 90+ strategies to help support those feeling low or anxious during the coronavirus pandemic.
You're Never Too Young To Talk Mental Health
Kooth provides a free, safe and anonymous way for young people to receive advice and support online for all young people aged 11-25 years in Solihull. Staffed by fully trained and qualified team members and available until 10pm each night 365 days a year can offer emotional support with a wide range of issues from having a bad day to more serious issues such as bullying, stress and anxiety.
Kooth Parent and Carer Brochure
Resources
Meet Ollee, a virtual friend developed by Parent Zone and funded by BBC Children in Need’s A Million & Me. Aimed at 8-11 year olds and their parents, Ollee helps families talk about difficult topics.
Pop in for a quick PAUSE SPACE to refresh your mental wellbeing. If you are having a busy day, be compassionate to yourself - right here, right now.
Take a few minutes to BREATHE or BE MINDFUL. Try out the MP3s - they are there to help you to feel better immediately, so it is important that you use them as often as you need to.