A MENTAL health nurse will visit 11 county schools in a bid to tackle the rise in mental health problems.

The visits are part of a scheme set up to help students aged 16 to 18 suffering from anxiety, low mood or stress.

Among schools taking part in the scheme so far include Worcester Sixth Form College, in Worcester, and The De Montfort School, in Evesham.

The project is the brainchild of Worcestershire Advance, which will pay for Carie Workman, a registered mental health nurse and therapist, to visit 11 schools and sixth form colleges with money raised at Worcestershire Advance’s fete, held at The Commandery, in Worcester.

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Julie Ferman, from Worcester Sixth Form College, said: “Mental health problems are on the increase and at Worcester Sixth Form College we feel that it is important for young people to be able to talk about their mental health, to get the support they need as early as possible and to get rid of the stigma that still exists around mental health conditions.”

Fiona Lovecy, from The De Montfort School, said: “At times it can be a challenge to find students the expertise they require if they are struggling with anxiety, low mood or stress, so we were delighted that Carie was able to offer support.”

By giving the students help at an early stage, it is hoped that they will grow up to be confident and resilient.

Ms Workman will deliver assemblies on mental health, coaching strategies and coping skills in schools. Students will then be invited to receive tailored advice from Ms Workman during a private drop-in clinic.

The scheme was created after a report was published by NHS Digital showing that one in eight school-age children has an identified mental health disorder.

Worcestershire Advance is a not-for-profit organisation which aims to attract, retain and grow business talent in Worcestershire.