Trust rolls out VR technology to help young people manage anxiety
A new pilot programme has been launched using virtual reality (VR) technology to help young people manage anxiety in school settings.
Delivered through the Trust’s Mental Health Support Teams in Schools, pupils in 15 secondary schools across Sutton will have access to state-of-the-art VR headsets designed to support emotional wellbeing. The technology provides a multi‑sensory, immersive experience that helps young people learn practical techniques to regulate their emotions, build coping skills and develop confidence.
The pilot is being delivered in partnership with Phase Space, a technology company specialising in evidence‑based VR tools that help people manage stress and anxiety.
Consultant Clinical Psychologist leading the programme at South West London and St George’s, Dr Annika Clark, said:
Our Mental Health Support Teams in Schools are vital in supporting children and young people with emerging mental health needs, while helping schools build a whole‑school approach to wellbeing. We are thrilled to be embracing innovative tools like Phase Space VR, an immersive new programme that helps young people reduce anxiety and feel calmer in just a few minutes, enabling them to regulate their emotions and return to learning with confidence.
Mental Health Support Teams (MHSTs) provide early intervention and evidence‑based support for children and young people with mild to moderate mental health needs. They also work closely with schools to promote holistic approaches to wellbeing, offering advice, training and links to specialist services so that young people can access the right support at the right time.
VR technology offers an innovative approach to supporting young people to manage stress and anxiety. Phase Space has carried out extensive real‑world validation through pilots in schools, universities and with NHS staff, with participants consistently reporting reductions in stress levels. In other pilot schools, 90 per cent of students using Phase Space VR reported an immediate drop in stress following a session.
Zillah Watson, Chief Executive of Phase Space, said:
We are delighted to be working with South West London and St George’s to explore how evidence-based technology solutions can support mental wellbeing in safe and accessible ways. This pilot reflects a shared commitment to early intervention and prevention. Delivered in partnership with the NHS, Phase Space is designed to complement existing support in schools, giving young people practical tools they can use when they are feeling anxious.
The pilot builds on the Trust’s wider work using VR technology, including trials on inpatient wards, and within outpatient Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services. Together these programmes are exploring how immersive VR technology can help reduce stress and anxiety for people experiencing mental health difficulties in South West London.
