A Birmingham school has apologised after a pupil was handed a leaflet which listed smoking a cigarette as a mental health self-help technique.
The flyer recommending the habit was handed out by a member of staff at Bartley Green School, on the southwest edge of Birmingham, it confirmed in an email to parents.
The literature advised those who needed support to consider measures like ‘have a bath or shower’, ‘stay in bed’ and ‘use aromatherapy oils’.
It also suggested ‘eat chocolate’, ‘have a cup of tea’, ‘stoke a pet/cuddle a teddy ‘ and ‘smoke a cigarette.’
The school later sent an email to parents and carers apologising for the error.
Staff at Bartley Green School in Birmingham (pictured) are in hot water
Staff at the school handed out the flyer to its pupils (pictured)
It read: ‘The school has been made aware of concerns raised in the community regarding a resource provided to a Bartley Green School pupil that suggests smoking a cigarette for mental health issues.
‘We can confirm an inaccurate resource was given to one pupil by a member of school staff in error. This should not have happened and we apologise for this.
‘The school would like to confirm that Bartley Green School does not promote the smoking of cigarettes as comfort for mental health concerns.’
The school’s website reads: ‘Bartley Green School promotes high standards and acceptance for all in a safe and respectful learning community.
‘Pupils are supported by rewarding their successes and developing their resilience on their journey to achieving their higher aspirations.
‘Our school aims have been established by the governors, through consultation.
‘They reflect the spirit of partnership with our community, through which we are best able to meet the needs of our young people.’