PASTORAL CARE REPORT

COVID-19 is causing anxiety across the UK and the rest of the world, negatively impacting on our mental health. Being in a lockdown can be psychologically challenging and the isolation emotionally tough.

Gateways staff have observed a rise in students’ stress, anxiety, fear and loneliness in 2020. More have been experiencing depression and a drop in self-esteem and confidence. The pastoral team have responded with an intensive effort to ensure that every student, along with their families, has had the opportunity and encouragement to speak about their concerns. From the start of lockdown in March until December 2020,

• Gateways has accepted 19 new referrals, including Covid-related referrals;

• the Head of Pastoral Care has made 151 support phone calls to parents and students;

• Gateways has provided 121 psychotherapy sessions to students, in partnership with Norwood.

In addition to the special programme of interventions during the pandemic, the pastoral team has continued its regular support services, including liaising with schools on the needs of mutual students and cooperating with organisations and charitie supporting Gateways students.