today's conference

I wanted to start by saying a big Thank you

to all of the Ted teachers here today.

I know how much is asked of you

the fact that you're all committing your valuable time

to support place to be

and prioritize the mental health of your students

is something that all parents should be very grateful for.

I often get asked why I decided to spend time

highlighting the mental health of children

I imagine my answer might be very similar

to many of yours.

I know that I was lucky

my parents and teachers provided me

with a wonderful and secure childhood

why always knew I was loved

valued and listened to

but of course many children aren't so lucky

since beginning my work in errors like addiction

for example

I have seen time and time again

that the roots of poor mental health in adulthood

are almost always present

in unresolved childhood challenges.

I'm sure you will agree

that all children deserve time attention and love

from the adults in their lives

these basic qualities

are so much more valuable

than the always changing material and social concerns

that can seem so important to young people

as today's theme reminds us

many children

even those from stable happy homes

are finding that their heads are just too full.

It is our duty

as parents and this teachers

to give all children

the space to build their emotional strength

and provide a strong foundation for their future

of course

not all children have the anchor of a strong family

many will arrive through your school gates

feeling a real lack of love and devotion in their lives

this often leaves them feeling insecure

and without confidence

and trust in the world around them

that is why your work is so important

parents teachers and other school staff

need the tools to help these young people

early in their lives

and the earlier the better

it is proven

that early action prevents problems later in life

imagine if everyone was able to help just one child

who needs to be listened to

needs to be respected

and needs to be loved

we could make such a huge difference

for an entire generation

as head teachers

you have the chance to reach tens of thousands

of children

during your careers

and make an impact on such a great scale.

Thank you for making the work of place to be

part of your mission

I hope you know how much your work is valued

Thank you

and I look forward to the rest of the afternoon.