Dear Family,

 As recent events in the Ukraine have unfolded we are aware of the impact this may have on our young people and families.  

 In order to promote healthy conversations and provide families with support in how to address this with their children, our East Renfrewshire Educational Psychologist Team have prepared some useful links for us to share with our community.

 https://www.youngminds.org.uk/parent/blog/top-tips-for-talking-to-your-young-person-about-the-events-in-ukraine/

 https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zbrdjsg

 For further information and advice on supporting children and families in East Renfrewshire you can access more about the Heathier Minds Team at:-

 https://blogs.glowscotland.org.uk/er/healthierminds/talking-about-events-in-ukraine/

 Kind Regards

 Giffnock Family Support Team

Healthier Minds

We are delighted to share the recent launch of East Renfrewshire Council’s Healthier Minds resource for families which seeks to address different ways we can work together to support our families and young people.

For further information on this we have included links below:-

YouTube Healthier Minds

Healthier Minds

The link below provides useful information supporting the mental health & wellbeing of our children:

Lesson 5 Challenging and Changing Unhelpful Thoughts

Anxiety Information Session 26th October 2022

Healthier Minds parents Final

Understanding Anxiety Booklet

How to nurture a child’s mental health

Transforming Child and Youth Mental Health

Healthier Minds

Psychological resilience through the pandemic

WEE Self-Isolating Activity Ideas primary

Issues With self Esteem

The Anxious Child

Tips for Feeling Good for Young People

YAMS Support Leaflet

Mental Health resources and support suggestions

Young Minds

Youngminds Crisis Messenger

The YoungMinds crisis messenger service provides free, 24/7 crisis support across the UK. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis and need support, you can text YM to 85258.

We aim to connect every texter to a trained volunteer in less than 5 minutes to provide support in a crisis. They will listen to you and help you think through how you’re feeling, and will aim to help you take the next steps towards feeling better.

Texts are free from EE, O2, Vodafone, 3, Virgin Mobile, BT Mobile, GiffGaff, Tesco Mobile and Telecom Plus.

This service is powered by our trusted partner, Crisis Text Line.

The trained volunteer will introduce themselves, reflect on what you’ve said, and invite you to share how you’re feeling. You’ll text each other, only sharing what you feel comfortable with. By asking questions, listening to you and responding with support, they will help you think through your feelings until you both feel you are now in a calm, safe place. You might be signposted to other services, so that you can continue to get support.

Our crisis messenger service could help with urgent issues such as:

  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Abuse or assault
  • Self-harm
  • Bullying
  • Relationship breakdown

You can text us free and anonymously – although if the volunteer believes you are at immediate risk of harm, they may share your details with people who can provide support.

There is also a number for worried parents to phone: 0808 802 5544 (Monday to Friday 0930 to 1600)