Changes at "Policy Proposal 1: Accessibility of Young People’s Mental Health Services"

Mental health services must be more accessible and varied at schools and colleges. Pupils should be able to access a wider range of services and support at schools and colleges. In addition to counsellors employed by schools, there should be joined up services with other professionals and opportunities (e.g. CAMHS, creative opportunities and group/peer support), and in spaces that are comfortable for young people (e.g. school fields).

Commitments:

Jenny Dunne (New Bridge Group) is currently working on a new mental health provision site in a school in Oldham, integrated with CAMHS. CAMHS would deliver the clinical services, but there will be nurses in the school and a focus on more holistic accessible engagements with pupils.

Simone Spray (42nd Street) is continuing to advocate for more integrated and accessible mental health services in schools and colleges.

Nasiha Patel (GMYCA) will host a coffee morning between students and professionals to provide peer relationship support that is friendly and not too daunting.

Sonia Bradley (NHS CAMHS) will advocate to expand the Teams in Schools pilot currently happening in Rochdale, to reach all of Greater Manchester.