COLLEGE WELLBEING.
We understand that sometimes our students might want a helping hand. That’s why our support network is here should they ever need it.
BSA holds a strong belief in supporting & advocating for Mental Health.
WELLBEING AT BSA
At Bristol School of Acting, we believe that nurturing mental health is as crucial as developing artistic talent. Our commitment to supporting and advocating for mental wellbeing is crucial to creating a safe and supportive learning environment for all our students, so that every student can reach their maximum potential.
Download our Statement of Mental Health and Pastoral intent.
Safeguarding and Prevent Duty
BSA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all learners. We follow robust safeguarding procedures and comply with the Prevent Duty under the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015 to protect learners from the risks of radicalisation and extremism.
We promote fundamental British values, provide appropriate staff training, and work with external agencies where necessary. All safeguarding concerns are managed in line with BSA’s safeguarding and Prevent policies.
Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility at BSA.
Support within in BSA
If your child needs support with their mental health or wellbeing, please encourage them to reach out. All staff are able and willing to talk/listen to students.
In particular we recommend:
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Speaking to their tutor
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Speaking to a member of the Safeguarding Team
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Emailing the Designated Safeguarding Lead or Course Leader
Lisa Wellsford
Designated Safeguarding, Prevent & Mental Health Lead
SAM BRIDGES
Online Safety Lead
Lorin Henderson
Deputy Safeguarding Lead
Support in Bristol
Creative Youth Network: The Creative Youth Network offers low intensity CBT for young people up to 17 years old at no cost (https://creativeyouthnetwork.org.uk)
Alateen: Support for families and friends of alcoholics (Tel: 0207 403 0888, https://al-anonuk.org.uk/alateen/)
FRANK: Support, advice and information on any issues or questions relating to drugs and alcohol 24/365 (Helpline: 0300 123 6600, SMS: 8211 https://talktofrank.com/)
SARSAS (Somerset & Avon Rape & Sexual Abuse Support): Support service for people who have experienced sexual violence at any point in their life (Women and girls, call 0808 801 0456, Men and boys, call 808 801 0464, https://www.sarsas.org.uk/)
NSPCC: Helpline for victims of sexual abuse in school (0800 136 663)
Samaritans: Call for free on 116 123
Papyrus: A national charity for the prevention of young suicide (www.papyrus-uk.org)
YoungMinds Crisis Messenger: Free, 24/7 support, (www.youngminds.org.uk/young-person/shout-85258)
The Mix: Offers email support via their online contact form. Free 1-2-1 webchat service and telephone helpline available. (0808 808 4994, www.themix.org.uk)
Campaign Against Living Miserably: The helpline runs 5pm-midnight, 365 days a year on (0800 585 858 or via webchat, see www.thecalmzone.net/what-we-do)
Mental Health 24/7: Via Avon & Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership (0800 953 1919, www.awp.nhs.uk/contact-us/help-emergency)
Off the Record: A mental health social movement by, and for, young people aged 11-25. (08088 089 120, www.otrbristol.org.uk)
Bristol Drugs Project (BDP): Advice around safe drug use and someone to talk to if you have concerns (0117 987 6000, www.bdp.org.uk/get-support/specific-support/students)
Unity Sexual Health: Free confidential service; contraception, pregnancy and STI advice
Self-Injury Support for Girls and women: (www.selfinjurysupport.org.uk)
1625 Independent People: Supports young people at risk of homelessness and care leavers (www.1625ip.co.uk)