FROME Community College sixth formers have recently completed a two-day mental health first aid course delivered with knowledge and compassion by therapist and ex teacher, Lucy Silk.
The 13 students from Year 12 and 13 were encouraged to discuss and recognise mental ill health and help others find and access the support they need.
It is the vision of the charity, Mental Health England, to achieve a society where mental health is as accepted as a normal part of life and everyone has the skills to look after their own and other people’s wellbeing.
One student said, “Physical health first aid is taught to young people all over the world, but mental health first aid is just as important and so needs to be taught to young people.”
Another commented, “It is wonderful to learn more. I think further training will be extremely useful for people looking for a career in this area. It could really help them.”
Two members of staff, Mrs Dredge and Mrs Marshall also took part in the workshop. They said, “The fact that Lucy has delivered this course to students, to empower them to be able to support their peers, is just brilliant. Together we can also begin to challenge the stigma which still surrounds mental health issues. This has been such a helpful and informative course to be a part of.”
Above: Lucy with the students
