St Margaret's Youth Mental Health First Aiders
Ms Robinson and Mrs Simmonds are both qualified Youth Mental Health First Aiders
Young Somerset – Mental Health and Wellbeing Team
We work in close partnership with the Young Somerset Mental Health and Wellbeing Team, meeting regularly to discuss the latest interventions and the most effective ways to support our pupils. This team provides valuable support to young people and families across Somerset, offering informative, non-clinical guidance for parents and carers, delivering evidence-based CBT interventions, and signposting to relevant external agencies for additional assistance.
A Youth Mental Health First Aider (YMHFA) supports the mental health and wellbeing of pupils by providing early, non-clinical help to those experiencing emotional distress or mental health difficulties.
They do not diagnose or treat mental health conditions but act as a first point of contact to guide and support pupils towards appropriate help.
In a school setting, Youth Mental Health First Aiders:
- Recognise early signs of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, or stress.
- Listen and provide support in a safe, non-judgmental way, helping pupils feel understood and valued.
- Offer guidance and information to pupils and, when appropriate, their parents or carers.
- Encourage professional support by signposting to school counsellors, external services, or healthcare professionals.
- Promote mental wellbeing across the school through awareness, positive interventions, and helping reduce stigma.
- Support staff and peers by sharing knowledge and strategies for supporting pupils’ mental health.
By acting as a first point of contact, Youth Mental Health First Aiders help ensure pupils receive timely support and contribute to a safe, supportive, and mentally healthy school environment.
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