The Mental Health Support Team, an initiative under the NHS, is urging the government to extend its reach to every school in Devon. Currently, the team provides crucial support to 125 schools and colleges across England, addressing issues such as anxiety, exam stress, and eating disorders. They offer one-to-one therapy, group workshops, and staff training. Concerns about potential funding cuts have prompted the team to advocate for broader implementation of their services.
Leading the charge is Holly Billington, head of the Mental Health Support Team for Devon and Torbay. Alongside senior wellbeing practitioners like Jim Albins, the team has been instrumental in supporting students, teachers, and parents. The Plan for Change, a comprehensive strategy to rejuvenate the NHS, includes this initiative as a pivotal component.
"Too many children and young people are waiting too long to access the mental health care they need." – A spokesperson
The team is determined to ensure that every school has access to a specialist mental health professional and a Young Futures hub in their community. This is part of their commitment to recruit 8,500 additional mental health workers.
"We will recruit 8,500 additional mental health workers, provide young people with access to a specialist mental health professional in every school and a Young Futures hub in every community." – A spokesperson
Amber, a 15-year-old student at St James School in Exeter, attests to the team's impact.
"I can't thank them enough," – Amber, 15, a student at St James School in Exeter
"They have helped me go through my darkest days and now I don't have to worry about talking to anyone." – Amber, 15, a student at St James School in Exeter
The threat of reduced funding looms large as the team emphasizes the importance of sustained financial support to maintain and expand their services. Their efforts align with the broader objective of the Plan for Change, which seeks to stabilize and future-proof the NHS.
"As part of our Plan for Change, we will get the NHS back on its feet, making it fit for the future." – A spokesperson
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