Information & Wellbeing

As we approach Christmas period, we want to take a moment to acknowledge that this time of year can feel very different for different people.

While Christmas is often portrayed as a joyful and celebratory period, we recognise that for many it can be a time of stress, anxiety, loneliness or loss. Some may be struggling financially, missing loved ones, experiencing relationship tensions, or feeling overwhelmed by the expectations and pressures of the season. And for others, Christmas simply isn’t a happy or meaningful celebration. It’s important that we create a supportive and compassionate environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

If you are finding this period difficult — whether emotionally, mentally or practically — please remember you don’t have to face it alone. There are excellent services in the UK that offer emotional support, guidance, practical advice, and connection. Below are some organisations and helplines you can reach out to:

Immediate Emotional Support (24/7)

Samaritans – Confidential listening support for anyone feeling distressed or overwhelmed.
116 123 (free to call) or email [email protected] – available 24/7 every day. Heads Together+1
Shout – 24/7 free crisis text support (text SHOUT to 85258). Heads Together

Mental Health Support & Information

Mind – Mental health charity offering information, signposting and support services.
Mind Infoline: 0300 123 3393 (Mon–Fri 9am–6pm) Centre for Mental Health
SANE – Emotional support and specialist mental health information.
SANEline: 0300 304 7000 (daily) SANE
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) – Support for anyone in crisis; helpline and webchat.
0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight daily) Centre for Mental Health
The Silver Line – Friendship and support for people aged 55+ (24/7).
0800 4 70 80 90 Mind

Loneliness & Social Support

British Red Cross – Support with loneliness and connections. British Red Cross
Befriending Networks – Directory of befriending services across the UK to help people feel less isolated. Mind

Young/Specific-Group Support

Childline (for under 18s) – Free confidential support for children and young people.
0800 11 11 (online chat also available) Chapter 22
Switchboard – Listening and support for LGBTQ+ people.
0800 0119 100 admin-llr.mind.org.uk

Practical and Financial Support

Citizens Advice – Advice on benefits, debt, housing and practical issues through local bureaux and online guides. Wikipedia
Age UK – Advice and support for older people (including advice line). Mind

Health & Emergency Services

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or at risk of harm, please call 999 or go to your nearest A&E. Centre for Mental Health
NHS 111 can provide urgent health advice and connect you to local services when needed. Centre for Mental Health

Parent Hub is for mums, dads. carer’s , grandparents, families or friends who have caring responsibilities for children attending Stretford High School!

Throughout the academic year our parent hub sessions cover a wide range of topics which aim to offer additional support to our caregivers and students alike.

Reminders will be sent to caregivers via the Arbor system prior to sessions taking place.

Parent hub sessions are a great opportunity to learn more , ask questions and meet other parents/caregivers. Sessions take place in our friendly hub space, located within the school.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Parent Hub dates for 2025/2026

Monday 20th October 2025 – Vaping (Health)
Monday 24th November 2025 – Routines and Attendance & why it’s important.
Monday 19th January 2026 – Artificial Intelligence (AI) workshop.
Monday 9th March 2026 – Thrive exam stress and support strategies.
Monday 18th May 2026- Healthy Lifestyles (health).
Monday 6th July 2026 – Talkshop – Who we are & what we do.

Gov.uk have put together some useful links and sources of wellbeing support so that children and young people, parents, carers, and school and college staff can get the advice and help they need.

Wellbeing Resources

The NHS also has 24-hour urgent wellbeing helplines available in most parts of England for people of all ages. If you have urgent concerns about a child or young person, you can find your local helpline here to discuss these with a wellbeing professional.

Looking for Support or Guidance?

Money worries, anxiety, loneliness, grief, difficult family relationships – these are just a few of the issues people tackle – if you are struggling here are some services that can offer support.

Kooth Online mental health support for young people aged 11-25.

Quell: Online mental health service for individuals aged 25 and older.

Talkshop: Support for young people in Trafford with advice and activities.

CAMHS Trafford: Child and adolescent mental health services in Trafford.

42nd Street: Mental health support for young people through therapy and projects.

Trafford Thrive: A guide for accessing mental health resources in Trafford.

Papyrus: Suicide prevention support and advice for young people.

Andy’s Man Club: Peer-led support groups for men to discuss mental health.

TTT -Trafford Team Together

Trafford Team Together (TTT) finds support for children and families living in Trafford or attending a Trafford school to prevent small worries turning into bigger problems.

Trafford Directory: Comprehensive resource for finding local services in Trafford.

Calm Connections: Support services for parents managing stress and anxiety.

Trafford Parents Forum: A community forum offering support for parents of children with additional needs.

TLC (Talk, Listen, Change): Counselling and support for family relationships.

Parenting Smart: Tips and advice for managing parenting challenges.

NSPCC: Provides resources to help keep children safe and support parents.

Stretford Public Hall: A community space hosting events and support services.

St Johns Centre – Old Trafford: A hub for community activities and learning.

Limelight – Old Trafford: Offers services and activities for the local community.

Poverty Action: Connects people with tools for financial guidance and money management.

Citizens Advice: Offers advice on financial issues and general support services.

Trafford Assist: Emergency support for Trafford residents facing financial hardship.

Little Green Socks: Supports families by providing essential items.

Food Banks: Assistance for accessing food support in Trafford.

Women

TDAS: Support and refuge for women experiencing domestic abuse.

Women’s Aid: Comprehensive resources for women escaping abuse.

Refuge: Shelter and support services for domestic violence survivors.

Men

Men’s Domestic Violence Support: Help and advice for men facing domestic abuse.

ManKind: Supports male victims of domestic abuse.

Dash Charity: Services tailored for men experiencing domestic abuse.

Our children live in a different world to the one we grew up in. Social media is a major part of their world and while this has benefits, it also presents some dangers. The fact sheets below offer advice and guidance so that parents can help their child/children to stay safe online.

Teen Well-being: Taking Care of Your Mind and Body

Life as a teenager can be exciting, but it also comes with challenges. From school pressures to friendships and social media, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed at times. That’s why looking after your well-being is so important!

Your mental and physical health go hand in hand, and small changes can make a big difference. Whether it’s staying active, connecting with friends, learning new things, or simply taking time for yourself, there are plenty of ways to boost your happiness and resilience.

Here, you’ll find tips, advice, and real-life stories to help you feel your best. No matter what you’re going through, you’re not alone – and support is always available. Let’s explore the simple ways you can build a happier, healthier life.

The Five Ways to Wellbeing are simple, evidence-based actions that can improve mental health and overall well-being. They are:

Connect – Build strong relationships with family, friends, and your community. Social connections boost happiness and reduce stress
Be Active – Regular physical activity improves mental and physical health. This doesn’t have to be intense; walking, dancing, or playing sports all count
Take Notice – Be mindful of your surroundings and experiences. Noticing the small joys in life can help you feel more present and grateful
Keep Learning – Try new things and challenge yourself. Learning new skills or hobbies can boost self-confidence and keep your mind engaged
Give – Acts of kindness, whether big or small, can increase happiness. Helping others can give you a sense of purpose and connection