Published on: December 14, 2020
It’s ok to ask for help
In a year of uncertainty and upheaval, it’s no surprise that many families are facing difficulties in their daily lives. Children and young people may be feeling anxious, frustrated, sad, stressed and many other difficult emotions, which may contribute to wider issues such as sleep disorders, substance misuse and challenging behaviour.
While it’s not unusual to be dealing with these problems, that doesn’t mean they can be ignored if they are impacting on your or your child’s wellbeing, or that families have to go through this alone. As we enter the Christmas holidays and move into the new year, it’s important to reiterate that help is here when you need it.
Warwickshire School Health and Wellbeing Service
Warwickshire School Health and Wellbeing Service (WSHWBS) is here to support school-age children and young people and parents/carers with any issues relating to health and wellbeing. Parents/carers can get advice from a nurse by texting Parentline, our confidential text messaging service, on 07520 619 376, or by calling 03300 245 204. We’re available Monday-Thursday 9am-5pm and Friday 9am-4.30pm. We will remain open over the Christmas holidays (except for weekends and bank holidays).
Family Lives
Family Lives is a service that provides guidance to families with issues including family breakdown, challenging relationships and behaviour, debt, and emotional and mental wellbeing. Their team are now working with WSHWBS to help provide a wider level of support for Warwickshire families. They can be contacted via their helpline on 0808 800 2222 – it’s open Monday-Friday 9am-9pm and weekends 10am-3pm (these hours vary over Christmas). You can also email askus@familylives.org.uk, start an online chat on their website, or speak to other parents in their online forum community.
Other services, resources and self-help
Warwickshire Health and Wellbeing Portal – Warwickshire County Council directory of health and wellbeing services and support
Warwickshire Family Information Services (FIS) – advice for families from WCC on a wide range of topics
WCC Parenting Guides – free online guides to help parents feel more confident
Mental Health Matters – a 24/7 confidential helpline providing support to Coventry & Warwickshire
Mind – national charity providing support with mental health (visit cwmind.org.uk for local services)
Young Minds – guidance, resources and support with mental health for young people and parents/carers