Source · Select Committees · Education Committee
Recommendation 50
50
Accepted
Strengthen the role of mental health in health assessments for children in care.
Conclusion
The Department for Education and the Department of Health and Social Care should take forward this Committee’s recommendation to strengthen the role of mental health and emotional wellbeing in health assessments of children in care, ensuring that there is proper, effective accountability for meeting the current requirements. (Recommendation, Paragraph 122)
Government Response Summary
The government is reviewing and updating statutory guidance on promoting the health and wellbeing of looked-after children, specifically to strengthen the role of mental health in health assessments and ensure clearer accountability.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
Department of Health and Social Care should take forward this Committee’s recommendation to strengthen the role of mental health and emotional wellbeing in health assessments of children in care, ensuring that there is proper, effective accountability for meeting the current requirements. We are reviewing and updating statutory guidance on promoting the health and wellbeing of looked-after children, in partnership with the Department of Health and Social Care. This includes strengthening the role of mental health and emotional wellbeing in health assessments and ensuring clearer accountability for meeting existing requirements. The review is informed by input from practitioners and care- experienced young people to ensure changes are grounded in real-world experience and need. We are also funding a pilot for training mental health support teams working with victims and survivors of child sexual abuse. These efforts aim to ensure that children in care and care leavers receive timely, compassionate, and effective mental health support.