Committees scrutinise mental health provision for young people
21 December 2017
The Education and Health Committees launches a joint inquiry in response to the Government's green paper on Transforming children and young people's mental health provision.
- Inquiry: Children and Young People's Mental Health: Response to Green Paper
- Education Committee
- Health Committee
The Committees examines the proposed scope and implementation of the green paper, which was published on 4 December, and following up on their previous recommendations to Government.
Mental health services for young people of vital importance
The Committees recognise that the provision of mental health services to children and young people is of vital importance to safeguarding their wellbeing. Good mental health is not only of great value in itself, but it allows young people to take greater advantage of educational opportunities.
The Green Paper
Sarah Wollaston, Chair of the Health Committee, said:
"Much has been promised for children and young people's mental health services and we welcome the publication of the Government's green paper.
In this joint inquiry with the Education Committee, we will examine the proposals outlined in the green paper and the extent to which they will address the mental health needs of children and young people and enable them to thrive throughout their education."
Prevalence of mental ill health among children and young people
Robert Halfon, Chair of the Education Committee, said:
"There is a growing prevalence of mental ill health among children and young people. Schools, colleges and universities have an important role to play in supporting young people with mental health concerns and promoting well-being. Government has a significant role to play too.
In this inquiry, we will want to examine the measures proposed by the green paper. For example, what resources are allocated to schools, colleges and universities to help deliver support on the front line? What considerations are there regarding placing mental health professionals in schools? What does it offer to ensure pupils and students are making better-informed choices about social media use? In our evidence sessions we will be seeking answers to these questions."
The Committees plan to start taking oral evidence in January.
The Committees of the last Parliament carried out a joint inquiry on Children and young people's mental health—role of education.
Further information
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