Amber Flag Initiative
On Wednesday St. Laurence College celebrated raising our first ever Amber Flag. The Amber Flag is an initiative run by Pieta House “which recognises the individual efforts of primary and secondary schools, Youthreach, third level institutions, community groups, clubs and companies to create healthy, inclusive environments that support mental wellbeing."
In order to successfully complete our application, we were charged with a number of tasks to promote positive mental health within our school.
To achieve these goals:
- We had our Mental Health Awareness Week in October with a fundraiser for Pieta House.
- In December we sold hot chocolate & cookies in our Christmas Chocolate Corner in aid of Barnardos.
- In January we gave out sweet treats and messages to staff and students to mark Blue Monday.
- The Committee also created an Amber Flag Notice Board.
Our Amber Flag Committee throughout the year has shown tremendous commitment to the promotion of positive mental health by encouraging teamwork and contributions from their peers.
Our aim is to continue to raise awareness of stigmas which exist, and the stressors on the mental and emotional wellbeing of people today.
The students' efforts both in and outside of school hours and their community spirit have made this achievement possible. Well done and thank you to all involved.
The members of the Amber Flag Committee are:
Kailey, Taylor, Alicia, Trudie, Melissa, Cleo, Conor, James, Kacie, Karla, Summer, Ava, Chloe and Lily.
Ms. Smith (Guidance Counsellor)