Returning to school – March 2021
8 March 2021
Returning to school might feel especially strange or worrying this term. Our schools are experienced at managing risk, though, and we’ve been working with them to make lots of changes in line with government guidelines to help keep you safe – we wouldn’t let you go back to school if it wasn’t safe!
We also want to recognise how well you’ve done during the lockdown this year. We know it’s not been an easy time, but you’ve done great and we hope return to school goes well!
Your mental wellbeing
We’re guessing that you’ll have had very different experiences while at home, in terms of learning and personal experience, than the ones you would’ve had in school.
One top tip is to try to return to your “usual” school day routine as soon as possible. If you’re struggling to adjust to the change, or would like to talk to someone about your mental health in general, the following services are all available to you:
- Devon’s Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) are offering additional 24/7 telephone support. Please contact 03300 245 321 during normal hours (8am-5pm, Mon to Fri) or 0300 555 5000 outside these hours.
- Young Devon provide information, advice and counselling for children and young people over 11. If you need to talk to someone, please email wellbeingenquiries@youngdevon.org. Anyone already receiving support through Young Devon’s Wellbeing service should email yes.exeter@youngdevon.org or call 07935364652 and leave a message with your name and contact details.
- The ChatHeath text line allows young people aged 11-19 a place to talk completely confidentially with a school nurse about any worries or concerns they may have. Text 07520631722.
- Young Minds have a range of help and advice, including advice for young people about how they can look after their own mental health.
- Childline offer a free counselling service online or over the phone.
- The NHS Every Mind Matters website has tips to help if you are worried about coronavirus and how to look after your mental wellbeing while staying at home – you can even make your own Mind Plan.
- The NHS has also produced a mood self-assessment tool to help you better understand how you’ve been feeling. And if you become aware that you would like to talk about how you are feeling, mental health helplines can provide support.
You can find full details and information about the return to school on Devon County Council’s website.