Establish an inquiry into reported failures in CAMHS and NHS delays affecting children’s mental health, school attendance, and welfare outcomes.
Many children face long waits for CAMHS and NHS mental health support, which can leave families without help and pupils unable to attend school. Access to care and GP prescribing of SSRIs can vary by postcode, which can create unfair treatment gaps. These failures can harm education and drive rising welfare costs. EHCP's are also being affected as we feel the H (Health) parts are not being addressed. This can cause further costs to cash strapped local authorities. An inquiry is needed now.
Government response
The Government has no current plans to establish an inquiry. Multiple actions are in place to improve and reform NHS mental health services and provide children with timely access to appropriate care.