It has been a difficult time for everyone over the last couple of years, no less so than for our young people. Working together, the Middlewood Partnership, through members of its Poynton-based Patient Participation Forum groups, Poynton High School and Poynton Town Council have been developing resources to help young people in our area as part of Mental Health Awareness Week.  Members of Poynton High School’s Student Leadership Team have identified areas of concern and the support services and organisations which can help young people. Students suggested that a ‘business-style’ card with information would be very useful.  Funding has been secured from Waitrose and Timpson Foundation to print ‘Wellbeing cards’ with Poynton Town Council designing the cards.  Every student at Poynton High School has been given a card to keep, and some will be available at Waitrose and the Timpson shop in Cheadle. 

Middlewood Partnership have also consulted with the students to develop easily-navigated, specific webpages on their website aimed at meeting the needs of young people. The pages have lots of useful information about self-help including alcohol and drug misuse, mental health, smoking, relationships and lots more. 

(picture L-R: Paul Bowden GP at Middlewood Partnership, Eliza Year 8, Tom Year 7, Hannah Year 10, Sharon Duke Poynton Town Council, Alex Year10, Abi Year 12, Zoe Year 10, Miss Long teacher)

Mr Dean, Headteacher, said ‘This is a really positive example of what can be achieved through partnership between our school and the wider community.  I am sure it will be of real benefit to young people in Poynton’.