Your mental health matters
Introduction:
As defined by the mental health charity mind..
‘Mental health problems affect around one in four people in any given year. They range from common problems, such as depression and anxiety, to rarer problems such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder’ (https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/mental-health-problems-introduction/about-mental-health-problems/)
Here at Obsidian Cheer and Dance our communities core values reflect our aim to support all staff and athletes to the best of our ability including those with mental health difficulties. We recognise that within our diverse community there may be individuals who could become vulnerable at any time. Our response to concerns will be empathetic, supportive and take note of the wellbeing of all those involved.
Purpose: This policy sets out Obsidian Cheer and Dance approach to supporting all members of the organisation who may be struggling with mental health difficulties. Obsidian Cheer and Dance will also be mindful of its duty of care and legal obligations for example: The 2010 Equality Act and Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006.
Scope:
This policy applies to all staff and athletes at Obsidian Cheer and Dance. It also applies to any external visitors i.e guest teachers.
Main Policy:
Here at Obsidian Cheer and dance your Mental health is very important to us and we want you to be able to speak to one of our coaches if you are struggling with any form of mental health issues or concerns, Remember you are not alone. Any issues that you speak to us about will be confidential unless we feel this is a serious safeguarding issue, in this instance we will inform you that we need to speak to someone else to report our concerns. Please refer to the safeguarding policy for further information.
Here are some web pages to get some information from in case you are struggling and feel unable to speak out yet.
How we can help | How Samaritans can help you | Samaritans
National Autistic Society (autism.org.uk)
Contact numbers:
Samaritans. Samaritans provide 24-hour online and phone support to people in distress. Call: 116 123
Mind. Mind is a charity that provides advice and support for people experiencing a mental health problem in England and Wales. Call: 0300 123 3393 (Mon to Fri, 9am to 6pm)
Rethink Mental Illness. Support and advice for people living with mental health problems. Call: 0300 5000 927 (Mon to Fri, 9.30am to 4pm
Shout. Text SHOUT to 85258 anytime of day to receive text mental health support.
Children and adolescents:
Childline. Support for people under 19 in the UK. Call: 0800 11 11
Young Minds. Child and adolescent mental health charity. Call: 0808 802 5544 (parents’ helpline)
Kooth. Kooth is a free, safe and anonymous platform where you can get support, chat with counsellors, try mini-activities and join a forum. It is available for under 18s and up to under 25s in select areas including Somerset.
Local support:
Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust crisis line: 0800 953 1919.
Bath Mind. An independent charity in Bath and North east Somerset which provides a range of services to adults and young people.
Off the Record. A mental health and wellbeing charity providing free, confidential and independent support to young people aged 10-25 across Bath and North East Somerset
