Young Scots to guide study into child and adolescent mental health services

Young people are leading an in-depth Scottish Government study into child and adolescent mental health services.

Between 15 and 20 people aged 14 and 22 will be recruited, from a variety of backgrounds, as part of the new youth commission on mental health services.

It comes as mental health minister Maureen Watt (pictured) announced £95,000 to establish the working group, which will report back to ministers with recommendations.

She said: “The youth commission is an opportunity for us to better understand the current picture of support for children and adolescents across Scotland.

“These young people will do their own research, identify issues that are important to them and speak to experts, policymakers and service providers to look at areas for improvement.”

Half of all mental health problems in adulthood start by mid-teens and three-quarters by mid-20s, according to the Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH).

Ms Watt called on those who have experienced the care system, are disabled or faced discrimination because of race or sexual orientation to take part.

The new project will last for 15 months and launch during the Year of Young People 2018.

SAMH chief executive Billy Watson said: “It’s crucial we place young people at the heart of finding solutions to improve services now and for generations to come.

“We look forward to working with young people and our partners, and trust this work and its recommendations will lead to a step change in the provision of mental health services for children and young people across Scotland.”

Louise Macdonald, chief executive of Young Scot, added: “Support to develop positive mental health is a key issue for young people and is raised in nearly all of Young Scot’s work with young people across Scotland.

“We are delighted to work with the Scottish Government and SAMH throughout the Year of Young People 2018 and beyond to look at this important topic.”

Those interested in taking part can email [email protected] to register.

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