Mental Health Support Teams

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson and Health Secretary Wes Streeting have announced a new initiative to provide mental health support teams in schools. Speaking on Radio 4’s Today programme on 16 May, Phillipson explained the scheme is part of a £49m investment to hire 8500 additional NHS mental health practitioners by 2029-2030.

Also writing a joint article in the Daily Telegraph, the pair emphasised the importance of instilling “grit” in students. Phillipson argued that this quality is essential for overcoming life’s obstacles and achieving academic success. With twenty percent of young people facing mental health issues annually, the need for such initiatives is pressing.

‘Youth today encounter numerous challenges’ she remarked, acknowledging how some issues differ significantly from those she experienced. She also highlighted the pandemic’s impact on young people, particularly during pivotal moments in their lives.

Building Resilience

Introducing NHS-supported, evidence-based interventions during critical developmental stages is seen as crucial for building resilience and preventing future mental health crises. Phillipson believes providing young people with access to trained, qualified professionals is the right thing to do, noting the direct correlation between mental health and school attendance.

The Secretary of State applauded the growing openness about mental health among both young people and adults. ‘It’s good that we can talk about it,’ she said, ‘but it’s about supporting people to navigate these challenges.’ She stressed the government should provide support, while also emphasising the role of community in helping individuals manage these issues.

‘Everyone experiences mental health challenges,’ Phillipson concluded, ‘and if these issues are not addressed in young people, the consequences can be severe and lifelong, potentially hindering their academic performance and overall well-being.’

School Counselling in England

Access to improved mental health services and counselling interventions for young people is to be welcomed and has long been called for by Children’s Commissioner Dame Rachel de Souza. As highlighted in an earlier post, it has also been the focus of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) through their ‘School Counselling in England’ Campaign. Details laying out how extra practitioners will work alongside their colleagues in education are still to emerge.

More information about the scheme can be found on Gov.UK