An inquiry by the education select committee into the mental health and wellbeing of looked-after children found that “a significant number” of local authorities and health services are failing to identify mental health issues when children enter care.
It was also found that services are turning away vulnerable young people for not meeting diagnostic thresholds or being without a stable placement.
A report by the cross-party group of MPs said that provision for looked-after children with mental health concerns is poor in many areas across England.
"Some local authorities are providing integrated services with a strong focus on multi-agency working and support for key workers such as foster carers and school staff," the report said.
"However, a significant number are failing to identify mental health issues when children enter care and services are turning away vulnerable young people for not meeting diagnostic thresholds or being without a stable placement."
The report calls for looked-after children to be given priority access to mental health assessments and never refused care based on their placement or severity of their condition.
It also recommends that each local area employs a senior, designated mental health professional to oversee provision. And it calls for care leavers to be able to access child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) up until the age of 25 if necessary.
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
