New wellbeing centre for pupils
As part of our ongoing work with Ysgol Friars, Bangor Watkin Property Ventures (WPV) has funded and built a new wellbeing centre for pupils. The initiative is the first of its kind in Wales and is a significant step towards prioritising mental health within the school and its community.
The new centre is designed to be a hub for mental health services. With one full-time and two part time counsellors, as well as therapy dog, Lenny, also funded by WPV, pupils can access help and resources to promote their mental health and wellbeing.
Expressing their gratitude, the school said that the new centre has made a real difference and means pupils can access the support they need much quicker. Since the centre opened, waiting list for a pupil to see a counsellor has reduced from 9 months to 2 weeks. The school appreciates the ongoing support from former pupils, Mark Watkin Jones and Susan Ashworth, both of WPV who have seen how Covid-19 and other everyday pressures are impacting the mental health of young people.
Mark Watkin Jones, Chief Executive of WPV said: “We are pleased to lend our support to the pupils at Ysgol Friars through the new centre which we hope will help promote better mental health. This initiative represents our shared commitment to creating a nurturing environment where every young person can thrive, as well as develop the resilience they need to face everyday challenges.”
According to mental health charity, Mind one in four people in the UK experience mental health issues, but many do not receive the support they need. This along with the rising number of young people facing common mental health challenges underlines the importance of the new centre at Ysgol Friars. The facility is also open to external agencies that work with the school, and there are plans to expand access to more stakeholders in the future which means the wider community will also benefit.
Our work with Ysgol Friars shows an ongoing commitment to the school, and we will continue to support initiatives which are designed to enhance the welfare and educational experiences of the pupils.
