Services must step up mental health support

In a review of the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service, early findings indicate that children are not using mental health services for many reasons. These include lack of availability, distrust of statutory services, fear of being stigmatised, fear of confidentiality being broken and confusion over where to find help. Despite a range of potential avenues of support, it is clear that more needs to be done to create a clear and recognisable route to access help quickly and easily.

In response to some of these problems, the government has set up a three-year pathfinder project, Targeted Mental Health in Schools, aimed at improving access and early intervention for children at risk of or experiencing mental health problems. Southwark Council has been named as one of the 25 pathfinder authorities that are expecting to develop far-reaching approaches to promote mental health in schools. These include one-to-one therapeutic treatments, drop-ins, parenting advice and training for staff in schools, as well as strengthening its referral system. The project aims to make schools a more effective channel for encouraging positive mental health and promotes the need for holistic treatment and improved accessibility.

Recognising the stigma attached to mental health problems, the charities Mind and Rethink have joined forces with Mental Health Media to set up the Time to Change campaign, which aims to break down barriers and reduce discrimination. Time to Change is a combination of 35 local and national projects, with the schemes focused on improving the wellbeing of mental health sufferers through localised approaches. Initiatives range from exercise, community projects, motivational support and a variety of sporting activities. The programmes aim to empower those suffering from emotional health problems, but also bring together people with and without problems to eradicate the stigma around mental health. Feedback from the local organisations has been positive.

Good mental health and wellbeing are crucial to ensuring that all children and young people can achieve and fulfil their potential. Childhood can be an extremely stressful time and emotional health difficulties can linger into adult life and lead to low self-confidence, self-harm and even suicide. It's time for all of us - government, local authorities and voluntary services - to step up our efforts in providing more accessible treatment for children and their families who experience mental health problems.

Anne Longfield is chief executive of 4Children.Email anne.longfield@haymarket.com