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 ne...

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. Type: conclusion | Number: 26 | Paragraph: 131 | Response status: under_consideration Government response: 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 cle