Here at St Sebastian's, we are committed to nurturing the whole child, supporting pupils’ academic, social, emotional and spiritual development. We recognise that every child’s mental health and wellbeing is central to their learning and personal growth. Our aim is to create a safe, welcoming and nurturing environment where pupils feel valued, listened to and supported in all aspects of their lives. Rooted in Gospel values, we celebrate that each child is made in the image of God, with unique gifts, talents and potential.

We provide a wide range of support to help pupils manage emotions, develop resilience, and build positive relationships. This includes pastoral care, PSHE and RSHE lessons, mindfulness and reflection activities, peer mentoring and access to trained staff who can provide guidance and intervention when needed. By working closely with our parents, carers and external agencies (including local mental health services) we ensure that every child receives the support they require to flourish.

We also provide access to national and local mental health support services for children and young people:

National Support:

• Childline – Free, confidential support for children and young people.

• YoungMinds – Guidance and support for children and their families.

• Kooth – Online mental health support and counselling for children and young people.

• Mind – Advice and support for young people experiencing mental health difficulties.

Local Liverpool Support:

• Reach Out – Liverpool CAMHS – Guidance and therapeutic support for children and young people.

• CAMHS - Websites | APPs to support Mental Health & Wellbeing

By prioritising pupils’ mental health and wellbeing and focusing on the development of the whole child, we aim to equip them with confidence, resilience and a sense of belonging. We want every child to thrive academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually, and to grow into positive, well-rounded individuals who can contribute meaningfully to their community and the wider world.

At St Sebastian's, we understand that parenting and caring for children is both rewarding and challenging. Each family faces different pressures at different times, and we recognise that parents and carers’ mental health and wellbeing are central to the wellbeing of their children and the wider school community. Our aim is to provide guidance, support, and reassurance to help families navigate every season of life.

We encourage parents and carers to prioritise their own mental health and seek support when needed. Taking care of your wellbeing is not only essential for you, but it also enables you to nurture, guide and strengthen your children and your family relationships.

Our school provides information about a variety of trusted national support services, which offer guidance, counselling and practical strategies:

• Mind – Advice, support, and information on mental health challenges.

• Every Mind Matters (NHS) – Tools and tips for everyday mental health and resilience.

• Family Lives – Guidance, emotional support, and helplines for parents.

• Education Support – Free, confidential support for parents working in education.

• Young Minds Parent Helpline – Advice for parents supporting children and young people’s mental health.

We also signpost parents and carers to Liverpool-specific local services that provide practical and emotional support:

• Family Help Hubs – Liverpool City Council – Targeted support for families, including early help, parenting advice, and support for mental health or family challenges.

• Talking Therapies – Liverpool (Mersey Care NHS) – Confidential talking therapy service for adults (16+) across Liverpool, offering counselling, courses, and mental health support.

• Reach Out – Liverpool CAMHS – Support for children and young people’s mental health, with resources and advice for parents/carers.

• Liverpool Parenting Support Programmes – Evidence-based workshops, group sessions, and programmes to strengthen parenting skills and family resilience.

• Liverpool City Council – Mental Health & Wellbeing Advice – Guidance and local resources for adult mental health and family support.

We recognise that every family experiences different seasons — times of joy, growth, challenge, or worry — and we aim to support parents and carers through them all. Our motto: "be kind to one another" underpins everything we do. By nurturing your wellbeing, you strengthen your family, your children and our school community. Together, with faith and support, we can navigate life’s challenges with confidence, resilience and love.

At St Sebastian's, we believe that the wellbeing and mental health of every member of staff are vital to the success of our school community. As a Catholic school, we recognise that each person is made in the image and likeness of God, with their own gifts, challenges and unique journey. We are committed to creating a culture of care where staff feel valued, supported and able to flourish — professionally, emotionally and spiritually.

We understand that life brings different seasons — times of energy and joy and times of pressure or difficulty. In every season, we aim to walk together in faith, showing compassion and understanding for one another. Our approach to wellbeing is rooted in Gospel values: love, respect, dignity and hope.

Staff are encouraged to speak openly about their mental health and to seek support when needed. We provide access to confidential wellbeing and mental health support services, regular check-ins, supervision and pastoral care, as well as opportunities for prayer and reflection. We promote a healthy work–life balance, celebrate achievements and ensure that staff feel appreciated and listened to.

Additional wellbeing and mental health support is available through Education Support, a free and confidential 24-hour service offering advice, counselling and guidance for anyone working in education.

We are guided by the comforting words of Scripture:

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
Ecclesiastes 3:1

These words remind us that rest and renewal are part of God’s plan. By caring for our staff and nurturing their mental health, we strengthen our whole school family — ensuring that, together, we can serve our children and community with love, joy and purpose.