Welcome to our regular Well Windsor update!
It’s been a few months since our launch party on World Mental Health Day in October, and we’ve been busy ever since—launching services, collaborating with schools, and continuing to fundraise. Now, we’re thrilled to establish a regular rhythm of communication to keep you updated and engaged as we progress towards making a meaningful impact.
So let’s take a step back. Who Are Well Windsor, and What Do We Aim to Achieve?
Well Windsor is a group of seven dedicated parent-volunteers who came together in early 2024 with a shared mission: to drive positive change for the young people in our town. The statistics surrounding child happiness, anxiety, depression, and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) referrals are deeply concerning, and we believe urgent action is needed to provide an additional layer of support.
COVID-19 significantly impacted our children’s mental health, and the increasing use of smartphones is contributing to loneliness, attention difficulties, and other challenges. Despite these growing issues, there doesn’t seem to be a comprehensive national plan to help children bounce back. Our focus is on understanding the root causes of these record levels of childhood distress and fostering stronger connections within our community.
Our Priorities: People, Funds, and Services
Over the past year, we’ve concentrated on three key areas:
1. People
We assembled a team of advisors and experts to complement our trustees and ensure the effective operation of our charity. Our advisory team includes local headteachers, GPs, charity sector specialists, and award-winning mental health ambassadors. Their guidance and expertise have been invaluable in shaping our initiatives and providing oversight and support.
2. Fundraising
We’ve launched various fundraising efforts, including events, sponsorships, and grant applications. While our events have been successful, the grants and foundation support have been equally encouraging. Notable supporters like the Prince Philip Trust and the Berkshire Community Foundation have embraced our vision for change and provided essential funding. Their backing highlights the importance of improving youth mental health, and we are deeply grateful for their support.
3. Services
Most importantly, we’ve launched services in local schools. After extensive consultation with school leaders and our advisory board, we designed a pilot program that has already begun making an impact. Thanks to our initial fundraising, we’re working with eight schools:
· Oakfield First School
· Clewer Green CE First School
· Dedworth Green First School
· Hilltop First School
· Dedworth Middle School
· Trevelyan Middle School
· The Windsor Boys’ School
· Windsor Girls’ School
The pilot program includes funding for the myHappymind mental wellbeing curriculum for first and middle schools, mental health first-aider training, and additional counselling to help reduce waiting times for children in need of professional support.
What’s Next?
We’ll keep you updated regularly on our activities and share data on the impact we’re making. For now, we wish all our followers a very Happy New Year! Stay tuned for more news and updates as we prepare for a transformative 2025 for Well Windsor.
Thank you for joining us on this journey to support the mental wellbeing of Windsor’s young people. Together, we can make a difference!