Children and Young People’s Mental Health Plan

We know that mental health is shaped by more than services alone. Family, education, community connection and the wider pressures young people face all play a role. This plan strengthens how we work together across health, social care, education and communities to provide earlier support and more joined-up care.

Over the last two years, we have made significant progress together. We have expanded Mental Health Support Teams to 60% of schools/colleges, supported over 37,000 children and young people each year, delivered 24/7 crisis support in every area, and introduced NHS 111 Option mental health. We have also progressed work to develop all-age mental health response vehicles, strengthen mental health support in paediatric acute settings and redesign care pathways, including eating disorders, young adults and inpatient care. These developments are at different stages, with some still being designed and prepared for implementation.

This one-year plan focuses on what will make the biggest difference now: stabilising services, reducing waits, improving equity and ensuring children, young people and families can see and feel improvements where they live. It is grounded in partnership, evidence and a shared commitment to continuous improvement.