Mental health and wellbeing

Over the last few years, mental health and well-being has become a prominent area of difficulty for children and young people, as well as the impact this can have on those around them; in 2022 figures estimated that around 1 in 6 children & young people have a recognised mental health difficulty. This affects many children and young people with other recognised Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, which often compounds their difficulties, both academically and socially.

Over the following pages you can find out about a range of agencies that are available to support children and young people's mental health.

DfE Guidance - mental health and behaviour

The Department for Education offer advice regarding behaviour and bullying, which you may find useful. They have produced guidance on commonly asked questions regarding bullying, including details of where to get help, for pupils, parents and teaching professionals.

Download the DfE Guidance "Mental Health and Behaviour in Schools".

The Mental Capacity Act and supported decision making

Preparing for Adulthood (PfA) have worked in partnership with the Transition Information Network (TIN), the Information Advice and Support Services Network (IASSN) and Making Ourselves Heard (MOH) to develop this factsheet. They have considered the practical implications of the key principles of the Mental Capacity Act and how they link with the duties in the Children and Families Act 2014 and the Care Act. Through working with young people they have explored how supported decision making can create positive outcomes for them as they prepare for adulthood as well as considering how they would want to be supported. 

• Mental Capacity Act Code of Practice