Source · Select Committees · Education Committee
Recommendation 26
26
Accepted
Paragraph: 131
Improve the Department’s offer of mental health support for school pupils.
Conclusion
We have seen overwhelming evidence indicating a radical increase in mental health difficulties amongst school pupils since the covid-19 pandemic. With CAMHS waiting lists at all-time highs, and pupils on three-year waiting lists in some parts of the country, it is evident that the current capacity of mental health services is grossly 66 Persistent absence and support for disadvantaged pupils inadequate. Whilst the Department has issued non-statutory guidance on mental health in schools, it needs to do more to improve its offer of support for these pupils.
Government Response Summary
The government stated it is already closely monitoring local authority support and highlighted its 'Working together' guidance, which sets clear roles for schools in addressing attendance barriers, in response to calls for more support for pupils with mental health difficulties.
Paragraph Reference:
131
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
27. The Department is already closely monitoring support provided by local authorities. The role of the local authority in attendance has changed significantly from that of the pre- 2014 Education Welfare Service. While core functions have been retained, the ‘Working together’ guidance also sets clear roles and responsibilities for schools for the first time. where the barrier to attendance is school based, which is the significant majority of cases.