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Children with learning disabilities are at risk of poor mental health. Partnership for Children has developed resources for use in Special Schools and this project seeks to roll them out nationally. Pupils will be able to better understand and articulate their feelings, and develop coping skills.
Categories
Situation
Children with learning disabilities are at risk of mental ill health: 36% of such children will develop a mental health problem during their lives (60% of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders). A lack of coping and social skills can impact on relationships with peers and family and restrict access to opportunities in society, leading to depression, loneliness, frustration and a lack of self-confidence. Yet Special Schools report a lack of resources to help teachers tackle the issue.
Solution
Partnership for Children has adapted its school-based mental health promotion programme Zippy’s Friends for children with learning disabilities. An external evaluation found that children with special needs benefited from the programme, particularly in the areas of self awareness, ability to regulate emotions and relationship skills. This project will make the programme available to Special Schools nationwide, so many children with learning disabilities can benefit from positive mental health.