Overview

This bill aims to improve the mental health and wellbeing of pupils in schools in England and Wales by legally requiring schools to actively promote their pupils' mental health and provide support for those with mental ill health. The bill amends the Education Act 2002 and the Academies Act 2010 to achieve this.

Description

The Schools (Mental Health and Wellbeing) Bill makes several key changes:

• Amendment to the Education Act 2002: The Secretary of State will be required to issue regulations mandating governing bodies to actively promote pupil mental health, support mental ill health, create mental health policies, provide staff training, and collaborate with other organizations (other governing bodies, local authorities, and NHS providers) on mental health initiatives. The curriculum will also be amended to include promoting pupil mental wellbeing alongside academic attainment.
• Amendment to the Academies Act 2010: Academies will be required to comply with the new regulations set out in the amended Education Act 2002.
• Geographical Extent and Commencement: The Act applies only to England and Wales and will come into force six months after it is passed.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify any direct government spending figures. The cost will likely depend on the implementation of the new regulations and the resources allocated by schools and local authorities for staff training, policy development, and collaborations with mental health services.

Groups Affected

• Pupils: The bill directly benefits pupils by promoting a more supportive environment that prioritizes their mental health.
• School Governing Bodies: They will have new legal responsibilities for promoting pupil mental health and implementing the required regulations.
• School Staff: They will need to participate in training and implement the new policies, potentially increasing their workload.
• Local Authorities: They will be required to collaborate with schools on mental health initiatives.
• NHS Providers and Commissioners: Increased collaboration with schools on pupil mental health is anticipated.

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