Compass and Visiba Care have partnered to create Wakey Wellness, an innovative app which provides a virtual ‘one-stop-shop’ for children, young people and families in Wakefield who would like information, guides and support with the emotional health and wellbeing issues which affect children and young people.
Compass hopes that the free app will enable more children, young people and their families to access up-to-date advice, information and support in one place.
The new interactive mobile phone app has been launched to make it easier for children, young people and their families to get much needed emotional health and wellbeing support.
Wakey Wellness will improve access to online and face-to-face support provided by Compass’ Wakefield Emotional Health and Wellbeing Service, which is commissioned by NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board, as well as one-click access to hints and tips for taking care of your own wellbeing.
Jane Wright, Assistant Director at Compass, said: “We know children and young people spend so much time online. With Wakey Wellness, children, young people and families in Wakefield can get information and advice 24/7 on a range of health and wellbeing topics including worries, sadness, managing emotions and healthy relationships with their peers.”
She explained that Wakey Wellness provides access to around the clock text messaging support service.
Users can book slots for online wellbeing drop-ins with one of the service’s Emotional Wellbeing Practitioners. They can also fill out an online form to request support for children and young people who would benefit from some goals-based one-to-one or group support.
Wakey Wellness is available free through Android and Apple app stores and can be found via Compass’ website https://www.compass-uk.org/services/wakefield-children-and-young-peoples-emotional-health-and-wellbeing-service/
Jane added: “The emotional health and wellbeing of our younger generation is a priority for everyone. We hope this new app will help give children, young people and families the strategies and tools they need to live happy healthy lives, build resilience and feel supported and safe.”
Hannah Gibson, Head of Global Partnerships at Visiba Care, which developed Wakey Wellness with Compass, said: “We are excited to be partnering with Compass, making it easier for children, young people and their families to access their services digitally.
Nearly all children between the age of 3-17 went online at some point in 2021 and 72% used a mobile phone. By the age of seven, 53% of children in the UK own a mobile phone. We believe the use of digital tools has a powerful part to play in improving health outcomes for younger generations.”
Compass will be promoting the new app with children, young people, families, communities and partners at events throughout the year.