Supporting mental health and well-being in our youth provision

Children who end up in custody are three times more likely to have mental health problems than those who do not. Supporting young offenders with their mental health and well-being is an essential part of their rehabilitation and we constantly strive to expand the support we offer.

Providing new and innovative ways to support mental health and well-being

Trauma Informed Schools UK

Recently, members of the Novus leadership team from HMYOI Cookham Wood and HMYOI Wetherby have completed a 4-day Trauma Informed Schools training programme.

The trauma informed approach is central to developing positive relationships with the children by always using positive language and rewarding positive behaviour in a caring, positive and reflective manner. 

There are also further plans to have an additional 10 colleagues from SENCOs, LSPs, Support & Progression and teachers from both sites to complete the training programme over the next 6 months.

Being able to provide this training to staff ensures that they are kept up to date with new practices and behaviours that will help support our young learners with their mental health and further help them on their rehabilitation journey. 

Therapy dog visit at HMYOI Cookham Wood

Last year, Therapy Dogs nationwide visited HMYOI Cookham Wood. The intent of the visit was to provide learners with the opportunity to reflect and talk about their feelings in a relaxed and supportive environment whilst also enhancing communication skills. 

The therapy dog, Stitch and dog handler Jamie both visited several classrooms meeting the learners. The visit proved very popular, with learners being fully engaged in stroking and cuddling Stitch. 

The benefits of Animal Assisted Therapies have been studied and results can range from improvement in general health and wellbeing, increased confidence and improved communication skills. Providing experiences like the therapy dog visit enables learners to open up and talk in a positive and supportive environment. 

Read more about Novus' youth provision and how we are helping to support and rehabilitate young offenders.