Mental health care report published

In response to the publication of ‘Progress and challenges in the transformation of children and young people's mental health care’ by the Education Policy Institute’s Mental Health Commission, which was supported by the Association of Colleges (AoC), David Corke, Director of Education and Skills Policy at AoC, said: “The Education Policy Institute’s report reveals a postcode lottery of fragmented mental health services for children and young people. “Young people must be able to access the support they are entitled to. As the report points out, colleges are at the frontline and we know they are already working as closely as possible with other local agencies and organisations. However, more must be done and the Government needs to focus across departments and organisations, including further education, to transform mental health services. “25% of mental health problems become apparent between the ages of 14 to 18 and so the Government must ensure that any funding or resources, including the appropriate training for teaching staff, are shared equally amongst school children and post 16-year-olds studying at FE and sixth form colleges."