Child mental health

We must work together to improve children's mental health - to put resources into early intervention and prevention, building resilience and ensuring our workforce is trained to spot the signs of mental ill health and equipped to refer and support children.

Blocks spelling out MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS

Role of paediatricians in supporting mental health

There is considerable variation in how child mental health services are delivered in the UK. Our position statement outlines the role of paediatricians in supporting children and young people’s mental health, and makes key recommendations to ensure their mental health needs are met.

Position statement

Mental health leadership

In spring 2022, we hosted a webinar outlining this position, describing training opportunities, networking with CAMHS and seeking views from children and young people.

Watch webinar

Insights from parents, young people and children on mental health

Being me - resources from care-experienced children and young people

Chatterbox game - kickstarting conversations with a playful look at myths

COVID-19 &Us - supporting mental health in a national crisis

Doctor's pocketbook - talking to young patients about mental health

Emoji card game - prompting young people to discuss their feelings

Health professionals in scrubs walking down hospital corridor

Meeting mental health needs in acute hospitals

The pandemic exacerbated existing pressures on services caring for children and young people presenting with mental ill health. Our joint statement with RCEM and RCPsych recommends how services can work together.

Joint position statement

Presenting the evidence on prevalence and services

State of Child Health is our landmark report into the health and wellbeing of children and young people in the UK, which looks at data on child health outcomes - including mental health prevalence and services.

Evidence on mental health

Close up of hands helping with a jigsaw puzzle

Responding to mental health and wellbeing strategy

In July 2022 we responded to the Department of Health and Social Care call for evidence to inform its new 10-year strategy for England. We argue for a holistic and inclusive approach, prioritising early intervention, integration and multidisciplinary working.

Consultation response

Paediatric training in mental health

Sub-specialty in child mental health

Special Interest (SPIN) modules, including on child mental health

External resources on child mental health

We Can Talk - co-produced mental health training, advice and resources

MindEd - free online learning and advice

Latest news about child mental health and wellbeing

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Press release

3 May 2023

Paediatricians concerned that children in Northern Ireland are being left behind

Last week Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris set out Stormont's budget for 2023-24.

A purple background with round dots of bright colours on top. Some of the round dots of colours have been replaced with circular photos of faces.

Announcement

24 April 2023

Updated standards published to enhance the health and wellbeing of vulnerable children in secure settings

The newly refreshed standards place a greater emphasis on building trusting relationships with children, the continuity of care, listening to their thoughts and wishes and including them in decisions about their care.

Press release

31 March 2023

Health outcomes continue to worsen for UK children – say leading children’s doctors

Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) warns that across most indicators, health outcomes are worsening for children who live in deprived areas.

Latest resources about child mental health and wellbeing

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Resource

Department of Education NI Corporate Plan, 'Every Child' - consultation response

The Department of Education (Northern Ireland) 2023-2028 Corporate Plan will set the strategic focus over the next five years with a view to making a difference and improving outcomes for children and young people in NI. This consultation is on the draft plan.

Resource

Dentistry (Wales) – consultation response

In September 2022 we responded to the Health and Social Care Committee Consultation on Dentistry.

Resource

Healthy Food Environment (Wales) – consultation response

In September 2022 we responded to the Welsh Government consultation on Healthy Food Environment.