What is being done and why
Nationally
NHS England’s Long-Term Plan includes expanding Children and Young People’s Mental Health Services (CYPMHS); ensuring 345,000 more children and young people aged 0-25 can access NHS-funded mental health services by 2023/24; providing early intervention and crisis care through schools, colleges and community services; and investing in eating disorder services, digital support and peer-led interventions.
Regionally
- Integrated Care Systems coordinate mental health services across NHS trusts, councils and charities.
- Mental Health Support Teams in schools offer early help and referrals.
- Regional funding for young mental health hubs, especially in areas with higher deprivation.
Locally
Hartlepool and Stockton-on-Tees Children and Young People’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Transformation Plan was developed in line with the national Future in Mind strategy. The strategy focuses on:
- Improving access to mental health support for children, young people and families.
- Multi-agency collaboration between schools, social care, NHS, and voluntary services.
- Early intervention and support for complex needs.
- Training staff to deliver evidence-based care.
Services in Hartlepool:
- The Haven – offer free, confidential counselling for young people aged 11 to 25.
- ThinkWise Psychological Wellbeing – specialises in single-session therapy and support for parents of anxious children. Offers practical strategies for managing anxiety and emotional challenges.
- Children and Young People’s Mental Health and Wellbeing (Hartlepool Borough Council) – resources and support through schools, GPs and community partners promoting emotional wellbeing and providing access to the Local Transformation Plan.
- Hartlepool Community Trust – 1:1 support, mutual support groups and training in peer support, resilience and safety planning.