As an SEMH specialist Academy we put mental health and wellbeing at the heart of our work.
Young people at Hollis Academy often require some extra support with their mental health and wellbeing be that in managing anger, anxiety, OCD, sleep problems, or working through trauma. Staff within the Academy are highly trained to support this work, and we commission services from professionals including alliance counselling and treetops occupational therapy.
Sleep
Studies have shown that between 50-85% of those with a neurodevelopmental condition have sleep difficulties. It is vital that we get the right amount of sleep to support both physical and mental wellbeing. If a child sleeps well, they are more likely to be mentally alert, feel happier and have better focus.
Tips on supporting sleep –link-
We can support parents and carers in reaching out to sleep services should further help be needed.
Routine
Changes in routine can cause immense stress to children with an SEMH need. Rehearsing a routine and discussing it with your child in advance of the change is essential. Staff at Hollis Academy avoid changes in routine, and if they are expected children are alert to a change and it is discussed with them before an event.
Supporting a routine might be through a visual timetable for a morning routine or practising a school morning before school term starts. Older children might prefer verbal cues as they become familiar with a routine.
Tips on developing routines –link-
We can support parents and carers in developing positive routines at home by working with a child in school on a challenging aspect or change in home life.
CAMHS
We work closely with CAMHS to facilitate assessment and clinical support for young people.
Some useful links for parents/carers are:
What is CAMHS and how to access CAMHS support (Guide to CAMHS | Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services | YoungMinds)
CAMHS services for Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys (Community mental health services in Teesside for children and young people - Tees Esk and Wear Valley NHS Foundation Trust (tewv.nhs.uk)
In a mental health emergency please contact the CAMHS crisis team on 0800 0516171. This could be if a young person feels suicidal, has self-harmed or is experiencing extreme emotional distress.
CAMHS crisis team (Crisis and liaison service for children and young people - Tees Esk and Wear Valley NHS Foundation Trust (tewv.nhs.uk))