An unprecedented partnership of ten authorities covering the county of Essex has today published Open up, Reach out, a five-year local transformation plan for the emotional wellbeing and mental health of children and young people.
The plan includes major improvements and new services with an investment of £3.3 million per year added to the current £13.2 million a year budget – an increase of 25%.
In a recent assessment by NHS England, the plan was rated the highest in the Midlands and East region.
Some of the planned improvements over the next three years include:
- Nearly £1m per annum extra to expand services for eating disorders
- Enhanced crisis services working 9am-9pm, 7 days a week
- An increase in staff providing single points of access in each local authority area – Southend, Essex and Thurrock – making it easier for young people, families and professionals to get the support they need
- Special training and support for schools and other places that help children and young people.
Essex County Councillor Dick Madden, Cabinet Member for Adults and Children, said:
“Nationally, it is estimated that only one in four children and young people who need help are actually receiving a service. This is also what we found in Essex.
“We are tackling the stigma that prevents young people seeking help. We also need to move away from old-style clinics and get our services into familiar places. Support in schools is something our young people have said they want.
“Our children and young people have said we don’t know enough about mental health or the services available. More knowledge and skills within our communities could save young lives.”
The improvement plan and additional money for emotional wellbeing and mental health services for children and young people is in addition to the recent investment pledge made by the Prime Minister for all mental health services across the country – see national story at https://www.gov.uk/government/news/prime-minister-pledges-a-revolution-in-mental-health-treatment
