The Welsh Assembly Government has today launched a national action plan to improve children’s mental health services.
The plan follows a critical report on children and young people’s mental health services which was published jointly last autumn by Healthcare Inspectorate Wales, the Wales Audit Office, Estyn and Care and Social Services Inspectorate Wales.
The plan outlines the role of health, social services and education professionals and the voluntary sector in supporting children and young people and aims to:
• establish child-centred services which take into account the views of the young people and families using them;
• improve overall the mental health of children and young people, and provide effective and timely intervention for those presenting with emotional and mental health problems;
• make services equitably available across Wales, on the basis of need; and,
• reduce the stigma relating to mental health services.
Health Minister Edwina Hart said: “The mental health and well-being of children and young people is a priority for the Assembly Government and a One Wales commitment, whether treating conditions or tackling the stigma that can be associated with mental health.
“It is essential that health and local government cooperate to support children and young people with emotional well-being and mental health needs.
“I expect local services to work together to use the additional funding we have already committed to deliver this plan and to develop future care and support for children and young people experiencing mental health conditions.”
To access an online copy of the plan please visit: http://wales.gov.uk/topics/health/publications/health/guidance/actionplan/?lang=en
To read the Welsh Assembly Government press release on the action plan in full please visit: http://www.wales.nhs.uk/newsitem.cfm?contentid=16565
To read the report which inspired today’s plan please visit: http://home-5011705817.webspace-host.com/wordpress/mhw/news.php?id=706