This report by the EPI assesses the progress that has been made against government targets to improve children and young people’s mental health services since 2015. It finds that whilst some progress has been made in improving service provision, this has been outpaced by rising demand for services, with concerning levels of variation in the services available across England and a need for better data and greater transparency regarding service availability, quality and outcomes.
The report finds that out of 135 government policies relating to children and young people’s mental health, just 36 per cent had been fully implemented. Some action had been taken for 58 per cent and for 6 per cent, it was unclear whether any progress had been made.
Most policy plans that have been implemented are related to improving processes rather than the experiences and outcomes of young people with mental health needs.
Mental health provision for young people continues to vary considerably across the country, according to new data collected. This includes support following a mental health crisis and whilst on a waiting list for clinical treatment; the ages at which children and young people’s mental health services are accessible; and the range of evidence-based therapeutic treatments on offer.
Whilst positive changes to provision for young people have been made, this progress has been outpaced by rising need. With a significant increase in the number of children and young people accessing services since the pandemic, government targets are now outdated and based on historical data.