The following is a news story from Hafal’s Big Lottery-funded Young People’s Information Hub. To access the Hub please visit: http://www.hafal.org/hafal/yp_index.php
Health and Social Services Minister Lesley Griffiths AM has announced the publication of the first Annual Report on “Breaking the Barriers” – the Welsh Government’s national action plan for improving children’s mental health services.
“Breaking the Barriers” was published in 2010 following “Services for children and young people with emotional and mental health needs” (2009), a report by the Wales Audit Office, Healthcare Inspectorate Wales, Estyn and the Care and Social Services Inspectorate Wales which stated that mental health services in Wales were failing many children and young people.
Speaking at the launch of Tŷ Llidiard, a new Bridgend-based £26million mental health unit for young people, the Minister said: “The health and well-being of children and young people is a priority for the Welsh Government as outlined in our Programme for Government.
“I am very pleased the first Annual Report into provision for children’s mental health shows we are making excellent progress to ensure all young people get the chance to fulfill their potential.”
Commenting on the report Hafal’s Young People’s Information Officer John Gilheaney said: “While progress has been made the report recognises areas of concern such as the fact that while more than 50% of children with severe learning disabilities have significant mental health problems only a small percentage receive services; and also the ‘dramatic’ reduction of Social Worker posts in specialist CAMHS. The report also acknowledges the problems to be faced in delivering services in the current economic climate.”
To read the “Breaking the Barriers” annual report please visit: http://tiny.cc/no3pn