NSPCC concerns over ‘CAMHS’ waiting times

NSPCC Cymru / Wales has raised concerns over the latest mental health waiting times for children and young people in Wales.

According to statistics published today, 1,062 people had been waiting over 16 weeks for a first outpatient appointment within CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) at the end of June.

The number has differed significantly over recent months, rising from 738 in December 2014 to 1,766 in September last year and dropping substantially since. In May 2015 an additional £7.6 million investment was announced for the service in Wales and the NSPCC has called for this to continue.

It’s Time – the charity’s flagship campaign on mental health – calls for swift action to address long delays in CAMHS across the UK.

Earlier this year the NSPCC released findings from a UK-wide survey of health professionals. 63 per cent of those surveyed in Wales reported average waiting times for CAMHS services of over 5 months.

Some said help for children who had been abused was not seen as a priority. One Welsh professional described accessing therapy for children as ‘extremely difficult’ and another said: “Thresholds for services have been made higher. CAMHS is almost impossible to access unless the child is actively suicidal.”

Head of NSPCC Cymru / Wales, Des Mannion, said:

“Too many children and young people are still waiting far too long to access the crucial mental health services they need.

“There have been some recent improvements in CAMHS waiting times and the Welsh government’s additional funding is hugely welcome – but it’s clear there’s still a long way to go.

“Without support to overcome their trauma, children and young people can be faced with serious and corrosive emotional and psychological consequences.

“Getting help to them earlier is vital and can prevent much longer term damage.”