At Willow Grove Primary school, mental health and wellbeing are at the core of everything we do. Our Mental Health and Wellbeing Lead is Mr Carr and he is supported in this role by Ms Threlfall. 

We understand that children learn best when they feel safe, supported, and emotionally secure. That’s why, at Willow Grove, we place such a strong focus on creating an environment where every child’s wellbeing is valued and nurtured.

Our school values – Be Safe, Be Kind, Be Positive – guide our daily interactions and shape a culture of care, compassion, and encouragement. We believe that promoting positive mental health is not just about helping children manage difficulties, but also about equipping them with the tools to thrive — emotionally, socially, and academically.

We provide a wide range of wellbeing support, from newly launched (in September 2025) NEST provision and separate  childrens' gym, to individual emotional check-ins and therapeutic interventions to whole-school strategies that build resilience and self-awareness. Our staff are trained to recognise signs of emotional distress and respond with empathy and understanding. We also work closely with families and external professionals to ensure children receive the right support at the right time. We buy in 1.5 days per week from Wigan Family Welfare so that our children can access counselling support when they need it. In addition to this we offer supervision sessions to staff to support them with their own wellbeing. 

By prioritising mental health and wellbeing, we help children develop confidence, build healthy relationships, and feel empowered to face life’s challenges. Our goal is to create a school where every child feels seen, heard, and valued — a place where they can truly flourish.

Resources to help you and your children with your mental health and wellbeing:

Home - Kooth

Wigan Mental Health Services for adults

Do you need to talk to someone right now?

If you're feeling overwhelmed by harmful thoughts and feelings, it is important you speak to someone as soon as possible. 

There is help available to you. Telling someone can make you feel more supported and less alone. 

• Mental Health Urgent Help - If you need to talk to someone urgently about your mental health, or are concerned about a loved one, call NHS 111 and select OPTION 2 to be placed in direct contact with a mental health professional in your area
• The Samaritans - 116123 (24 hours a day, 365 days a year)
• Papyrus UK Suicide Prevention - Prevention of young suicide (external link). Are you, or is a young person you know, not coping with life? For confidential suicide prevention advice contact HOPELINE247. Call 0800 068 4141, or text 88247 (available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year)
• Crisis Harbour (external link)
• Book an emergency appointment with your doctor
• Visit your nearest A&E department or call 999 for life threatening emergencies.