All NHS mental health trusts are setting up 24/7 helplines, and seeking to use digital and virtual channels, to continue delivering support during the pandemic.
Social connections, alongside exercise, sleep, diet and routine are important protective factors for mental health. Resources to promote and support mental wellbeing are included in the list of online resources DfE has published to help children to learn at home. Public Health England has also published guidance on supporting children and young people’s mental health.
Digital support includes:
- Minded educational resources for adults about children and young people’s mental health, which is relevant for teachers, other professionals working with children, volunteers, parents and carers
- The Every Mind Matters platform, from Public Health England, about looking after your mental health
- Rise Above, targeted at young people, which also has schools-facing lesson plans