Pupils at Hartsdown Academy have been focusing on their mental health and wellbeing this term, using a motivational book donated by local charity Fegans. Every pupil at the secondary school in Margate received their own copy of the Headspace book, which was funded by AXA PPP.
Developed by Fegans counsellor Georgina Cuthburtson, with the help of research groups of young people and an experienced designer, Headspace is designed to open-up conversations and encourage self-help strategies. Six-formers at Hartsdown Academy spent time going through the books with younger pupils talking about some of the issues covered in the book include self-harm, relationships and risk taking.
Headteacher Matthew Tate said: “Hartsdown Academy would like to thank Fegans for these amazing books. The response from the students has been fantastic – they’ve really engaged with them and found them an excellent source of support and comfort. As a school, we regard the mental health and wellbeing of students with the utmost care, and these books have proven to be a vital resource for both staff and students.”
Fegans provides children’s counselling services in schools across Thanet, as well as parent support services to families in need. It also runs the pre-school Buttons in Ramsgate.
Headspace was launched by Fegans with the aim of helping as many local young people as possible by sharing its expertise beyond the counselling rooms.
The Headspace book is also supported with a free online resource – www.fegans.org.uk/headspace – which contains articles, advice and real-life case studies covering issues such as depression, anxiety and eating disorders, with a handy directory of specialist organisations who can help.
The Headspace book can also be bought online for £5, with all proceeds from the book donated to Fegans www.fegans.org.uk/headspace