A charity is calling for more mental health support workers in schools and dedicated ‘wellbeing’ hours for pupils when they return in August.

The Mental Health Foundation Scotland is warning children are most likely to be affected psychologically by the impact of covid and says social distancing in schools could exacerbate any “trauma and distress”.

The charity says the health and wellbeing of pupils must be prioritised when children return to classrooms after the summer break.

In a statement, it suggests a series of measures including training in place for school staff to deliver a wellbeing hour where young people can talk about the virus and other issues which affect their lives.

While two hours are dedicated to physical education every week, the charity points out there “is no equivalent for mental health”.

The Scottish Government should also conduct an impact assessment on introducing social distancing measures in schools and involve young people in the process of deciding what will be in place.

Local authorities must mobilise a wide range of mental health support workers to all schools, rather than “waiting for young people to become emotionally unwell before we step in and offer support”.

MSPs have launched investigations into how the pandemic is affecting vulnerable groups, including children and young people.

Research carried out by YouthLink Scotland and Young Scot in April found nearly four out of ten children and young people aged 11-25 felt moderately or extremely concerned about their own mental wellbeing.

Toni Giugliano, Senior Policy Manager at Mental Health Foundation Scotland said: “There’s a growing body of evidence that lockdown and social distancing are harming young people’s mental health.

“Children and young people are least likely to be affected by covid-19 physically but are most likely to be affected psychologically.

“To introduce social distancing in schools could exacerbate the trauma and distress that many have experienced in the last few months.

“We’re urging the Scottish Government to fully consider the psychological consequences of keeping children apart – particularly for the most vulnerable or those who thrive on school-based interactions.”

He added: “Our time spent in school, during those important developmental years of our adolescence shape us and pave the way for our future.  How schools respond and support children and young people will have a significant influence on the mental health and wellbeing of our next generation.”

Jacqueline Pollock, Pastoral Head at St Mungos High School in Falkirk, said: “These recommendations confirm what we have been hearing during our regular contacts with parents and pupils over the past 13 weeks.

“Many have raised concerns about social isolation and uncertainty about the future. Disruption to sleep patterns has also been a significant factor in the lives of many young people as routines have changed significantly.”

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