A WELLBEING wagon offering colouring books and fidget toys is one of a host of new initiatives to aid mental health at the Bournemouth and Poole College.

The wagon, brought out at lunchtimes, also delivers aromatherapy oils and modelling materials to aid mindfulness and promote stress-busting.

The college, which has sites at the Lansdowne in Bournemouth and North Road in Poole, has also introduced all-day drop-in sessions, welfare and mental health coaches and a sensory room.

Students have the opportunity to speak to counsellors, student support mentors and coaches through self-referrals or via their tutors.

Debbie Smith, Director of Student Experience and Senior Designated Safeguarding Lead, said: "At both sites of the College, we offer an all-day drop-in session where students can visit us and seek support.

"The drop-ins are also supported by external organisations such as Dorset Sexual Health Care and Dorset Rape Crisis Support Centre on a monthly basis so that students can access specialist agency support. We want to ensure that every student can be given the guidance they need to reach their full potential during their studies."

The college now has a dedicated sensory room, which has been designed and resourced by the learning support and special educational needs (SEN) team as a result of student and parent feedback.

The space features sensory equipment which can be used by students who have anxiety, an autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) or learning disabilities. The temperature, light, sound and touch can be regulated by the individual learner to benefit their specific needs.

Lois Knight, Learning Support Manager and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead, said: "We have installed a sensory room to ensure all students are able to cope with the learning environment.

"This is a fantastic step forward for the college and it demonstrates our commitment to meeting the needs of a wide range of learners. We hope it enables them to learn the skills that will ensure they leave the College as more confident and competent individuals."

Bournemouth and Poole College will be holding its own Mental Health Awareness Week from October 15-19. Students and staff will be encouraged to talk about their mental health with trained professionals, as well as learning techniques to improve and promote their own wellbeing.

For more information go to thecollege.co.uk or call 01202 205205.