James Naish MP has welcomed the expansion of mental health support for children and young people in Nottinghamshire, with a new Mental Health Support Team (MHST) currently in training at NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Integrated Care Board (ICB) set to begin supporting local schools next year.
The announcement comes as nearly six million children and young people across England can now access mental health support through their school or college, helping more pupils receive early support and intervention when they need it.
Mental Health Support Teams are now working in almost 11,800 schools and colleges across England, providing practical support, advice and early intervention to help children manage their mental health and wellbeing. Across the Midlands, around 60% of pupils and learners are now covered by MHSTs, while nearly 80% of secondary schools nationally have access to a team.
The new team being trained by NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire ICB will help to extend support to more schools across Nottinghamshire, so more children and young people can access help in a familiar environment and at an earlier stage.
Evidence suggests the programme is having a positive impact, with schools reporting improvements in pupil wellbeing and attendance. Early intervention can play an important role in helping children remain engaged in education and achieve their full potential.
James Naish, MP for Rushcliffe, said:
“Good mental health is fundamental to helping children and young people thrive both in school and in later life. Many families across Rushcliffe will know the importance of being able to access support early, before problems become more serious.
“I am pleased to see additional mental health support being made available to schools in Nottinghamshire. Bringing services closer to where young people spend most of their time will hopefully make a real difference, ensuring intervention at the right time.
“This investment will help more children and young people access the support they need to succeed in education and fulfil their potential.”
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Notes to Editors
- Mental Health Support Teams are funded by the Department of Health and Social Care and delivered jointly with the Department for Education and NHS England.
- MHSTs provide support for children and young people aged 5–18 in primary schools, secondary schools and further education colleges.
- Nearly six million children and young people across England can now access support through a Mental Health Support Team.
- Around 60% of pupils and learners in the Midlands are currently covered by MHST services.
- NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire ICB is training a new Mental Health Support Team which is expected to begin supporting local schools from next year.
