As Children’s Mental Health Week 2026 (9–15 February) takes place across the UK, Purple House Clinic Rugby is highlighting the importance of helping children and young people feel that they belong and are valued. This year’s theme, This Is My Place, encourages families, schools and communities to create safe, supportive environments where children feel seen, heard, and understood.
Supporting children and young people to feel secure and understood is central to the work the clinic does with families across Rugby and Warwickshire. A strong sense of belonging and being valued, whether at home, at school or in the community, plays a vital role in protecting children’s mental health and emotional wellbeing.
Dr Lynne Taylor, Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist for Purple House Clinic Rugby, said: “When children feel they belong and are valued for who they really are, they are more likely to feel confident and able to cope with life’s challenges. We know that our sense of belonging as individuals, in our friendships in school, and in communities, plays a vital role in our mental health and wellbeing.
“Knowing where we belong and feeling part of our environment is a basic human need. It can have a lasting impact on many aspects of our lives, from our mental and physical health to education, relationships and future opportunities. When people feel a genuine sense of belonging and being valued, it gives them the confidence to engage, contribute and thrive.”
During Children’s Mental Health Week, Purple House Clinic Rugby is encouraging parents, carers, schools and local organisations to reflect on how they can help children feel that they have their place – somewhere they feel heard, respected and supported.
Here are some practical tips to help families and communities support children’s wellbeing:
- Create safe spaces for conversation – Let children know there is time and space to talk, without judgement or pressure to “fix” things.
- Encourage a sense of belonging and being valued at home – Simple routines, shared meals or regular check-ins help children feel secure and connected.
- Listen first, reassure second – Feeling heard is often more important than receiving advice.
- Validate feelings – Let children know that all emotions are okay, even the difficult ones.
- Celebrate strengths and effort – Noticing what children enjoy or do well helps build confidence and self-esteem.
- Model healthy emotional expression – Children learn by watching how adults talk about and manage their own feelings.
- Emphasis that everyone is unique – Everyone has their own strengths and challenges and diversity and is something to be celebrated, as well as supported.
- Watch for changes – Shifts in behaviour, mood or sleep can be early signs a child may need extra support.
- Reach out for help early – Accessing professional support can prevent difficulties from becoming more serious.
Purple House Clinic Rugby provides a supportive and confidential environment for children, young people and families to explore their emotions and experiences at their own pace, helping them to develop a greater understanding of themselves, coping strategies and building the clarity and resilience to move forward.