Ruth Cadbury welcomes new mental health support for young people

Ruth Cadbury MP has welcomed the news that more children across West London can now access mental health support in Schools. Nearly six million children and young people across the country, including a majority in West London can now access mental health support in their school or college – giving them the tools and support they need.  There has been an increase of around 800,000 more pupils than last year who have been able to access new mental health Support Teams, who are now working in almost 11,800 schools and colleges across England.

These teams are already making a clear difference. Nine in ten schools and colleges say they are improving children’s mental health and wellbeing, while seven in ten report improved attendance — helping keep pupils in school and on track for their futures.

With around one million 16- to 24-year-olds not in education, employment or training – and poor mental health a major barrier – this is a key challenge holding young people back.  Now, nearly 80% of secondary schools now have access to a mental health support team, providing timely, practical help as pressures on young people continue to grow.

Commenting on this new Ruth Cadbury MP for Brentford and Isleworth said,

‘‘I am really pleased that the Government are rolling out extra mental health support teams for schools, including 4 within our local NHS integrated care board.  Parents, teachers and young people locally have often told me about the need to improve mental health services, and these extra teams will make a big difference.

‘‘The pandemic and social media has made it a tough time for young people to grow up in, and this is why these teams are so important. Extra help can help tackle the stress and anxiety that young people face.

‘‘I have long campaigned for better mental health support, including for young people and I look forward to seeing the difference these teams will make. These teams will build on the good work done by the Hounslow Youth Counselling Service, which is funded by Hounslow Council and which supports a number of young people locally.

“These new teams come alongside the continued investment into schools and our NHS locally. Recently three schools received extra funding for their school buildings and West Mid Hospital is getting the new Diagnostic, Treatment and Education Centre.’’