Stafford MP Theo Clarke has called on the government to roll out mental health support for schools when she spoke in a school funding debate in parliament.
Mrs Clarke told MPs she had recently visited Wolgarston High School in Penkridge where she spoke to the school’s mental health and wellbeing officer.
“I am a long-term advocate for mental health in Stafford, and I call on the government for more support in schools for mental health,” she told the debate.
“It is not mandatory in every school. Wolgarston is a fantastic example of a headteacher taking the issue very seriously and choosing to invest time and money.
“I hope the Government roll that out in other schools.”
Speaking afterwards Mrs Clarke added: “Levels of mental health issues have risen in schools especially since the pandemic and I will press ministers to look closely at having a mental health and wellbeing officer at every secondary school.
“The head of Wolgarston High School is committed to his approach and it will benefit pupils. I thank Jo Fairclough for her work in this area because it has enabled me to highlight it in parliament and to the minister."
The MP has had success bringing mental health funding to Stafford. Earlier this year, the area received £5.5 million to improve local mental health services following her three-year campaign to secure extra funding.
