Support for Families
We are mindful of the pressures facing not only students but also their families, and want to ensure that they have the best possible access to information, whether this be through the school’s own services, or by directing them to appropriate external resources and support.
Free School Meals
Please see the Free School Meals information on our Finance, Payments and Communication page.
Family Support
INVOLVE Volunatary Action in Mid Devon gives details of support, opportunities and projects across the Mid Devon community. Their Community Builder newsletters highlight what is happening in Cullompton and how to get involved.
Parental Minds
Parental Minds gives support to families who are struggling with their mental health. They believe that the parental voice is vital when families are living with mental health issues; this under pins all their work.
The support includes Parent Support hubs in Honiton, Sidmouth and Exeter, plus resources and webinars for parents and carers.
Visit: Home - Parental Minds
Loan Sharks
Trading Standards have advised that in the current economic climate there has been an increase in loan shark activity and have they have received an increase in calls to their national hotline. The pandemic means that many may experience financial trouble. During times like these, people can be extremely vulnerable and at risk of being taken advantage of. If you're unsure of a lender, do not use them. The helpline is open 24/7 on 0300 555 2222
‘Stop Loan Sharks’ have put together a resource pack to help people who are experiencing financial difficulties. Their resource pack can be found here
Action Fraud
Action Fraud has launched a national awareness campaign to urge the public to think twice before handing over money and personal information when booking holidays.
For information about how to avoid scams, or to report a scam of phishing attempt, visit Action Fraud or phone 0300 123 2040
Useful Contacts
Balloons
A small, local Exeter charity offering a range of support to children and young people aged 5 – 25 when someone significant in their life dies or is about to die. Working alongside their families and the professionals who care for them, to further enhance the support they receive. Contact 01392 982570 or go to their website Balloons or email: support@balloonscharity.co.uk
ChatHealth
A text service for young people aged 13-19 at secondary school to reach out to the School Nurse team for confidential advice on a wide range of issues such as bullying, emotional health and wellbeing, sexual health as well as illnesses. Contact: 07520 631722 or go to their website: Home Page - ChatHealth
Child Bereavement UK
Contact: 0800 02 888 40 or go to their website Child Bereavement UK
ChildLine
Contact: 0800 1111 (Phone lines open 24/7/365) or go to their website at: Childline | Childline (Note - ChildLine offers lots of helpful advice and support and isn’t just a ‘report it’ service)
Kooth
Online support including online counselling at: Home - Kooth
The Mix
Safe and confidential group chat and discussion boards, plus messaging support service and telephone counselling for young people under 25. You can visit the website, call the freephone number, or if you need help immediately you can also text The Mix on their crisis messenger text service which provides free, 24/7 crisis support across the UK. If you’re aged 25 or under, and are experiencing any painful emotion or are in crisis, you can text 85258 or go to their website: The Mix - Essential support for under 25s
Papyrus UK (HOPELINE247)
Confidential support and advice service for children and young people who are experiencing thoughts of suicide, or anyone concerned that a young person could be thinking about suicide. Contact HOPLEINE 247 for confidential support and practical advice: 0800 068 4141 Text: 88247 or go to their website: Papyrus UK Suicide Prevention | Prevention of Young Suicide (papyrus-uk.org)
Young Devon
Support for Emotional Wellbeing: Wellbeing | Young Devon
Young Minds
Offers tips, advice and guidance on where to get support for your mental health at: YoungMinds | Mental Health Charity For Children And Young People | YoungMinds