9 May 2022
Our assembly theme this week marks Mental Health Awareness Week running from Monday 9 to Sunday 15 May. This year's theme is ‘loneliness.’
Loneliness is when we feel we do not have the meaningful relationships we want around us. It is something we can all experience from time to time, throughout our lives, and will be different for everyone. Loneliness affects millions of people in the UK every year and is a key driver of poor mental health. The Foundation’s Mental Health in the Pandemic research has found that loneliness has been exacerbated by the Covid pandemic. Loneliness has been an important factor contributing to higher levels of distress, resulting from people’s sense of isolation and reduced ability to connect with others.
In this week's year group assemblies we are focussing on what we can do to reduce loneliness in our school community whilst making a difference to the lives of our own community. Finding connections to ourselves, others, and the world around us, is fundamental in protecting our mental health and reducing feelings of loneliness
Our 'Pupil Voice' at Kirkham Grammar School can be a great tool for helping everyone feel connected and valued. Pupils can offer unique perspectives on what it is like to be a pupil at KGS; being involved in decision-making can create meaningful change, as well as facilitating a sense of empowerment and inclusion.
Our school community is special and everyone matters! Let’s use the opportunities we have through Pupil Voice to strengthen our sense of belonging and ensure that everyone feels valued and heard.