Wellbeing
At HCACP, our wellbeing vision statement is that we are committed to promoting positive mental health for every member of our staff and student body, as well as our wider community.
We achieve this aim using a whole-academy strategy for all and specialised, targeted strategies for students and staff who need additional support. We ensure a safe and supportive environment for all, particularly those affected, both directly and indirectly, by issues around mental health.
We are aware that everyone experiences a range of day-to-day and unforeseen challenges which can make any of us feel vulnerable at one time or another. We work to ensure that everyone knows where they can find additional support and when they should ask for it. We take the view that positive mental health is everyone’s responsibility and that we all have a role to play. We believe that good mental health is vital to ensuring we can achieve our overall aim, that ‘All Can Achieve’.
Why not use the resources below to help you check in with how you are feeling and use the suggested apps and organisations for support too.
The email info@harriscrystalpalace.org.uk will also be checked by the HCACP safeguarding team between the hours of 8.30am and 3.00pm during term time if you are worried and need to speak with us.
Some things to try…
Now, more than ever, is the time to think about YOUR mental health. Here are some things that you could try. Do let us know what works for you, or if you have other suggestions.
Gratitude list. Whilst drinking your morning hot or cold drink, note down 10 things you’re grateful for. This only takes a minute but will energise you for much longer.
Routine. Without the need to get up and leave the house to go to school, sometimes our daily routine can be become imbalanced (in other words, we might stay in our PJs all day and eat cereal for dinner!). However, a solid routine should not be underestimated and has been scientifically proven to alleviate anxiety and stress. Find out more.
Exercise. There are lots of things we can do to release our endorphins to feel great and stay fit. There are loads of home workouts on YouTube that require no kit and can be done in your front room. The Body Coach has some great beginner low-impact workouts, advanced HIIT, and routines to do as a family.
Talk. Even if we can’t get out to see our friends and loved ones face-to-face, there are lots of opportunities to stay connected virtually.
Parents. Amazon are doing free audible books for children. Amazon has cancelled the subscription of books and audio stories for children and students of all ages as long as schools are closed. You can instantly stream a very wide collection of stories, including titles across six different languages, that will help children continue dreaming, learning, and just being themselves. All stories are free to stream on desktop, laptop, phone or tablet using this link.
Finally, think carefully about your news consumption. It's easy to reach for your phone as soon as you wake up and be inundated with overwhelming global updates throughout the day. So, do consider how much news/social media/internet you consume throughout the day. Consider structuring it into your day (e.g. 10 minutes after breakfast to catch up on the daily events) and then turning it off for the rest of the working day.
Coping with anxiety
Zara Long, Mental Health First Aid Trainer, on how to cope with anxiety in this uncertain time.
Other sources of support
If you are feeling anxious, stressed, alone or overwhelmed there are safe, confidential places you can get support.
- Click HERE to find out more about emotional wellbeing and mental health support for children, young people and families in Croydon.
- Coronavirus mental health and wellbeing resources. A list of resources compiled by Heads Together.
- Coping With Self-Isolation - tips from DISCOVER to help keep yourself occupied and tools to use to take care of your mental well-being and stay grounded.
- More self-isolation tips from DISCOVER.
- Download details of organisations that support young people with mental wellbeing.
www.kooth.com - chat to friendly counsellors, read articles written by young people, get support from the Kooth community.
MeeTwo app - whether you are worried about exams, climate change, global pandemics, or falling out with your best friend, don’t bottle it up. MeeTwo is a safe space where you can talk about your anxieties with people who are just like you. Free, safe, and anonymous, the MeeTwo app helps young people to help themselves, by helping other people. Join a community of 25,000 young people and stay social, in isolation.
Cycling - read our safety guide
With all of us looking to change our habits in getting around, and in particular to and from school, please see our HCACP road safety guide to cycling. If you have any questions please contact Ms Mills on millsc@harriscrystalpalace.org.uk
