The Pieta House Amber Flag initiative recognises the efforts of primary and secondary schools, companies, and community groups in creating positive, inclusive environments that support mental well-being.
The programme brings these groups together, encouraging collaboration toward a happier and healthier Ireland, while helping to reduce the stigma associated with mental health challenges.
Our school first became involved in the Amber Flag initiative in September 2022 and it has helped us to create a safer space for everyone to express themselves, seek help, and support each other.
To achieve our Pieta House Amber Flag, we organised a 'School Wellness Day'. This consisted of the children having breakfast in school which was thoroughly enjoyed by all. The Amber Flag Committee then taught all the classes dances which was followed by a cookery demonstration using healthy food. The day concluded with yoga on the beach of the whole school.
The committee also organised a bake sale to raise funds for Pieta house and created our 'Tree of Gratitude' where children drew or wrote about things that they were thankful for in their lives. Finally, as part of the children’s homework, the whole school was encouraged to have a conversation with someone in their life. A conversation no matter how small can make a huge difference in someone’s life.
The Pieta House Amber Flag initiative empowers schools and youth groups across the country to raise awareness of mental health stigma and to better understand the pressures that can affect the mental and emotional well-being of their communities. The programme promotes teamwork and active student involvement, working closely with the school to incorporate a peer-support element.
