Compassion in Education

Samaritans Cymru has worked with teaching staff and educational professionals in Wales on several initiatives and projects. We are aware of the increasing focus on schools, colleges and universities to promote good mental health and wellbeing in the workplace and to embed measures which protect staff, pupils and students.

We welcome the increased commitment to improving mental health and minimising emotional distress in educational settings throughout Wales and know every institution is different, with their own community and needs. This toolkit has been designed as an easy to use guide for all staff, which can help schools, colleges and universities look after this community by adopting a compassionate approach to the emotional and mental health needs of pupils, students and staff.

Compassion in Education has been designed to provide staff with facts and information, alongside real tips and actions which can be used in daily working life. This toolkit can assist staff when talking to or helping pupils, students or staff who are experiencing emotional distress. It also promotes a preventative approach to poor mental health in pupils, students and staff, which is a core focus of Samaritans work.

This toolkit isn’t just for the workplace; it has been designed to encourage you to act more compassionately in your own life, towards yourself and those around you. Acting with compassion has many benefits. It can improve your health, boost your wellbeing, and strengthen your relationships. Most importantly, compassion can change and save lives.