To receive a report relating to the findings of the survey undertaken in Central Bedfordshire Schools.

A presentation was delivered which highlighted the main priorities following a pupil health and wellbeing survey carried out across Central Bedfordshire schools. Professionals were concerned that emotional resilience amongst many children was low and that coping mechanisms within particular pupil cohorts was poor. The amount of physical activity carried out by school age children had declined in recent years and the team were keen that schools were encouraged to ensure pupils were given the opportunity to participate in the requisite amount of recommended activity every day. Next steps had been identified which would improve the support offered to pupils by schools, colleges and commissioned services, building resilience and improving the knowledge and skills of the children’s workforce through mental health and well being training. A planned local analysis would inform an evidence based approach to reducing self harm, implementing the local and national anti-stigma campaigns across the system, particularly focusing on boys.

In light of the report and presentation Members discussed the following in summary:-

·         That the youth service was working closely with particular pupil cohorts in order to best support them as some would not access youth centres in the first instance when seeking advice and guidance.

·         That once a full analysis of the results of the survey had been undertaken there was a need for school and local authority leaders to provide specific measures in relation to the delivery of actions outlined within the report. 

·         The benefits of sharing this report via the circulation Governors Essentials and the importance of Governors championing recommended processes within their schools.

·         The importance of sharing local findings with central government.

RECOMMENDED:-

1.    That the Committee support the full implementation of the Central Bedfordshire Children and Young People’s Emotional Health, Wellbeing and Resilience Action Plan.

2.    That the Committee champion the drive for senior leaders in all schools and colleges to provide appropriate policies, resources and adequate curriculum time for high quality and purposeful Personal, Social, Health Education (PSHE) including Drug and Alcohol and Relationship and Sex Education.

3.    That an update on the action plan’s implementation process be delivered at a future meeting.