“Disorganised”, “appalling”, “inexperienced” are just some of the negative comments left by reviewers on the website of the Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, the body responsible for Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services across Hertfordshire.
There are around 250,000 under-18s resident in Hertfordshire, with research showing that around 10% of children at some time experience a problem which affects their school, home or social life. The role of CAHMS is to identify and treat emotional problems such as anxiety, depression, anorexia and phobias, as well as behavioural issues such as aggression, schizophrenia, delinquency and ADHD (attention deficit hyperactive disorder). Professional child psychiatrists are employed by CAHMS to address these issues, alongside clinical and counselling psychologists, psychotherapists, specialist social workers and nurses, and family therapists.
Last year the Government promised extra resources for children’s mental health but these reviews clearly show the system is still under extreme pressure. The practical impact is that families often struggle and social services become involved, or remain involved for longer than necessary, as children have to wait for CAMHS services.
At Bretherton Law we can offer specialist professional legal advice for families where children are subject to Child Protection plans, pre-court processes or care proceedings. For more information please visit: Family Law and Divorce or please contact Kelly Hicks on 01727 869293 or kellyhicks@brethertonlaw.co.uk for initial advice and guidance.
