A recent study conducted by Cambridge University and the National Children’s Bureau highlighted the issues children face in the UK. Those in need of specialist mental health support are often being turned away by NHS services
The research shows that children with social work involvement, especially those from deprived backgrounds or on child protection plans, are significantly more likely to be denied access to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) compared to their peers.
The reality of children struggling with mental health in the UK
Despite being at higher risk of mental health conditions due to their circumstances, vulnerable children are being systematically neglected when it comes to receiving crucial mental health support. According to the study, children from the most deprived areas are twice as likely to be rejected for CAMHS compared to those from more affluent areas.
One of the key reasons identified for these rejections is the perceived “instability” of children’s situations by mental health service providers.
This includes children under the care of social workers or those on child protection plans, whose needs are often deemed too complex or uncertain to manage within existing CAMHS capacities.
Mental health and social service care
The Children’s Charities Coalition, comprising Action for Children, Barnardo’s, The Children’s Society, National Children’s Bureau, and NSPCC, has rallied behind the study’s findings, calling for urgent reforms. They highlight the need for a coordinated approach to bridge the gap between mental health and social care services, ensuring that children with complex needs receive adequate support.
The coalition’s recommendations include strategic investments to bolster CAMHS capacities, particularly in under-served areas and the creation of specialised pathways for children at risk of entering care.
They emphasise the importance of tailored support that acknowledges the intersection of social care and mental health needs in vulnerable children.
In response to the study, a spokesperson from the Department of Health and Social Care acknowledged the challenges outlined and pledged to review current policies.
They announced the government’s commitment to improving mental health services for children and indicated upcoming consultations with stakeholders to address these issues.
