Hampshire County Council has announced a £100,000 investment to extend mental health and wellbeing support to more primary schools across the county through the My Happy Mind programme.
The funding will bring the successful mental health initiative to primary schools throughout North-East Hampshire, ensuring all schools across the county have the opportunity to participate in the programme.
Currently operating in most areas of Hampshire, the My Happy Mind programme adopts a comprehensive whole-school strategy for mental wellbeing. The initiative helps pupils understand their feelings, develop confidence, and learn to handle life’s difficulties through various structured activities.
The programme involves collaborative work between students, teaching staff, and school personnel through classroom conversations, interactive activities, school assemblies, and playground-based education. Parents and carers can also participate through online materials and live coaching sessions.
Councillor Russell Oppenheimer, the County Council’s Elected Member for Health and Wellbeing, said: “This investment demonstrates our firm dedication to supporting children’s mental wellbeing within our communities. Strong mental health forms the basis for a fulfilling life. This programme aims to equip children with the skills to understand themselves, control their emotions, and establish a nurturing environment for their emotional growth.”
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The programme acknowledges the increasing national awareness of the significance of supporting children’s emotional health, enabling them to be content, resilient, and prepared for learning. Given that one in six children between ages 5 and 16 is likely to have a diagnosable mental health condition, early intervention is crucial.
By targeting schools in areas previously without access to the programme, the Council ensures early support reaches children throughout Hampshire.
Schools will have access to the funded programme over the coming year, which is part of Hampshire’s broader plan to enhance mental wellbeing and address health inequalities.
