New kits to help with students’ mental health

Students at Derby College Group have devised an innovative ‘first aid kit’ to help fellow learners with their mental health.

The Mental Health First Aid Toolkit is designed to provide practical support within classrooms, studios and workshops.

Created by students, for students, the toolkit offers a range of hands-on resources to help learners manage stress, find moments of calm, and build resilience.

Each kit includes strategy cards with simple, effective techniques that can be used both in the moment and as ongoing support.

To ensure accessibility, the toolkits have been placed in classrooms and key locations across Derby College Group’s sites.

Jill Hounslow-Eyre, resilience co-ordinator at the college, said: “Many students benefit from sensory tools during times when they might be feeling stressed or anxious, and having these available in the classroom and other key locations will be very useful.

“The takeaway strategy cards provide an invaluable opportunity for students to help themselves and take control of how they are feeling.

“The Mental Health First Aid Kit is a great addition to support students at Derby College Group.”