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health
safety
staff
Parents
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Mental Health and Well Being Policy
Linked Policies: Health and Safety, Child Protection and Safeguarding, Menopause, Pro-Social Behaviour, Key Person and Key Buddy System Policies. Policy Adopted: June 2026 Review Date: June 2027 Responsible Person: Manager/Wellbeing Lead Policy Statement We are dedicated to fostering a positive, inclusive, and nurturing environment that promotes the mental health and emotional wellbeing of all children, staff, and families. We understand that a child's emotional development is closely linked to their ability to learn, grow, and thrive. The purpose of this policy is to create an environment where positive mental health is a priority for all members of the setting. We are committed to building a culture of emotional support and understanding and to acting early when signs of distress or difficulty emerge. We uphold the EYFS principles by ensuring that each child is recognised as unique, respected as an individual, and provided with opportunities to form positive relationships and develop personally and socially. Our staff are equipped to promote wellbeing through everyday practice, partnership with parents and carers, and collaboration with external professionals when needed. Supporting Children's Mental Health and Wellbeing Within our setting, children's mental health and emotional wellbeing are supported through strong attachments, responsive care, and secure routines. Every child is assigned a key person who works closely with them and their family. The key person develops a trusting relationship with the child and supports their emotional and social development on a daily basis. This relationship helps children feel safe, confident, and valued and provides the foundation for exploring feelings, building friendships, and learning how to regulate emotions. We provide calm and comforting spaces where children can self-regulate, relax, or seek quiet time when needed. Through play, conversation, and positive interactions, children are encouraged to recognise, express, and manage their emotions appropriately. Supporting Staff Mental Health and Wellbeing We believe that the emotional health of our staff is essential to the overall wellbeing of our setting. Team members are encouraged to prioritise their own mental health and are supported through a culture of openness, respect, and mutual support. Regular supervision meetings provide opportunities for staff to reflect on their practice, wellbeing, and any challenges they may be experiencing. The emotional wellbeing of staff is supported through shared reflective practice and a commitment to positive communication across the setting. Methods we use to support staff wellbeing include:
Staff can speak to their manager, who can arrange a confidential meeting with the Wellbeing Officer. We are also able to signpost staff to support through Avensure and Care First. Care First offers a range of confidential services, including access to professionally qualified counsellors. Where appropriate, staff may also be encouraged to seek support from their GP or other healthcare professionals. Training and Professional Development We are committed to ensuring that all staff have the knowledge and confidence to support positive mental health and emotional wellbeing. Staff receive appropriate induction, training, and ongoing professional development relating to emotional wellbeing, attachment, child development, behaviour management, safeguarding, and supporting children's mental health. Wellbeing is also discussed during supervision meetings and team meetings to ensure staff feel supported in their role and are able to identify and respond to concerns effectively. Working in Partnership with FamiliesWe value our relationships with families and view them as essential partners in supporting children's mental health and wellbeing. Parents and carers are welcomed and respected, and their knowledge of their children is actively sought and incorporated into planning and care. Communication with families is open, regular, and respectful. We keep families informed about their child's development and emotional wellbeing and encourage ongoing dialogue through daily handovers, meetings, and written updates. When concerns arise, we approach families with sensitivity, compassion, and a commitment to working together in the best interests of the child. We also provide support and guidance to families, including signposting to local services such as health visitors, Family Hubs, and mental health professionals when appropriate. Our inclusive approach recognises and celebrates the diversity of family backgrounds, cultures, and values, ensuring that all families feel welcome, respected, and supported. Confidentiality and Information SharingAny concerns regarding the mental health and emotional wellbeing of a child, family member, or staff member will be treated sensitively and confidentially. Information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis and in accordance with our Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy, Data Protection Policy, and relevant legislation. Where concerns indicate that a child or adult may be at risk of harm, information will be shared with appropriate agencies and professionals to ensure their safety and wellbeing. Roles and ResponsibilitiesAll staff are responsible for promoting a mentally healthy environment within the setting. They are expected to model positive emotional behaviours, respond sensitively to children's needs, and foster an atmosphere of respect, kindness, and care. The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) is responsible for supporting staff in identifying and addressing wellbeing concerns, particularly where these may be linked to safeguarding issues. The Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) supports children with identified additional needs and works closely with families and other professionals to ensure appropriate support is in place. We also have a Support Worker who helps support children with emotional and behavioural needs and works alongside staff, families, and professionals to promote positive outcomes. Useful Support Services Hub of Hope https://hubofhope.co.uk NHS 111 https://111.nhs.uk Mind https://www.mind.org.uk Samaritans Telephone: 116 123 (free, 24 hours a day) https://www.samaritans.org Family Hub https://familyhubs.eastsussex.gov.uk/about/find-family-hub/peacehaven Monitoring and Review This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if there are changes to legislation, statutory guidance, or the needs of the setting. The effectiveness of this policy will be monitored through staff supervision, parent feedback, safeguarding procedures, and ongoing evaluation of children's wellbeing and development.
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