Our training helps school staff to recognise children who have a parent with a mental illness and be equipped to offer appropriate support. Often these children can present as withdrawn and anxious, or they are reluctant to come forward because they do not want to be exposed to stigma or bullying. During training, staff will reflect and build on their existing skills, giving them the confidence and tools to support these young people. School staff are ideally placed to be the trusted adult children deserve so that they feel safe in asking for help when they need it.
Our Time’s goal is to break the silence surrounding mental illness, so these children and young people can get the help they need and develop resilience. Three principles underpin all of our work:
- Children and young people who have a parent with a mental illness need to know they are not alone
- They deserve a good explanation of mental illness
- They should all have a trusted adult to talk to
With this support, children can thrive despite the unique challenges they face in their family.
