Young people are increasingly experiencing mental health problems but are not accessing the care that they need outside of schools, say head teachers. In survey results published last week by the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) with the National Children’s Bureau (NCB), secondary school head teachers reported increases in the number of students suffering from health and wellbeing issues over the past five years.
- 55% reported a large increase in anxiety or stress among students
- 40% reported a rise in cyberbullying
- 79% reported increases in self harm or suicidal thoughts among students
According to the report, most schools offer on-site support for students in the form of counselling or educational psychology sessions. Many also offer peer mentoring to students. However, head teachers reported difficulties when students need extra support.
- 65% say they struggle to get access to mental health services
- 53% of those who have referred a pupil to CAMHS rated their effectiveness as poor or very poor
- 80% wanted to see CAMHS expanded in their area
The FYFV Mental Health Taskforce report highlights that early identification and access to the right treatment for young people’s mental health problems requires collaboration between schools and CAMHS. NHS England and the Department for Education (DfE) have initiated 22 mental health pilots to provide a named single point of contact between schools and their local NHS health services. Backed by £3 million investment, the pilots are working with teachers, parents and pupils to increase understanding of mental health issues, as to provide access to the the right support at the right time.
Last month, the DfE announced an additional £1.5m funding to develop peer support networks to help young people talk about mental health. Within this, a digital innovation fund will provide new online mental health resources and apps for parents and young people. A DfE consultation is inviting opinions on peer support from children and young people and organisations within education and mental health. Add your views to the consultation by 24th March.
