Place2Be conference calls for a collaborative approach to embed mental health in schools
Place2Be, supported by AL Philanthropies, convened education leaders, health professionals, and voluntary sector partners at The Lowry in Salford for a pivotal conference on children’s mental health. The event focused on one clear goal: shifting from treatment to prevention by placing schools at the heart of support.
Attended by over 90 schools from the Greater Manchester area and across the northwest, the conference opened with a keynote from the Deputy Director Children’s Commissioner for England, Joe Lane. Joe highlighted the growing pressures on schools and the need for a collaborative approach. He set out a clear vision for early, needs-led support delivered for children in schools and communities to prevent poor mental health and reduce waiting times.
Debbie Simmons, Regional Director for the North of England, Midlands, and Wales at Place2Be, also stressed that prevention must begin in classrooms and communities.
The first session examined how strong relationships between education, health, and social care drive systemic change. Speakers including James Robertson (Beewell Programme), Amy Burns (One Education), and Professor Sandeep Ranote called for greater collaboration and a national wellbeing measurement programme to ensure children’s voices inform policy.
Session two presented findings from the three-year AL Philanthropies research programme in 20 Greater Manchester schools. The research confirmed that a whole-school approach improves attendance, strengthens relationships, and creates a culture where pupils feel safe. Caroline Doyle, headteacher at St Sebastian’s RC Primary School, one of the 20 schools within the research programme, said, “Place2Be was the catalyst for culture shift... bringing children out of their shells.”
The third session explored how prevention reduces risks such as exclusion and poor life outcomes. Experts like Dr David Maguire emphasised the importance of safe spaces and community programmes to tackle isolation and build resilience.
Throughout the entire conference, speakers advocated for investment in prevention, embedded mental health into education, and collaboration across sectors. Place2Be is calling on policymakers, funders, and education leaders to prioritise mental health in schools.
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