Navigating Mental Health Gaps: What School Business Leaders Need to Know

A report from the Education Policy Institute reveals substantial gaps in early mental health support for young people across England, alongside an increase in the number of young individuals reaching crisis levels

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on Education Policy Institute

The research, based on data from integrated care systems, local authorities and NHS trusts, highlights significant geographic disparities in the availability of non-specialist mental health services for young people. It also finds no clear connection between the level of need and the availability of support.

Variations in Available Support

The report reveals considerable variation in the availability of mental health support services for young people across different regions of the country, particularly those delivered outside of NHS settings. These services encompass a wide range of support, including open-access or drop-in mental health services, youth groups and peer support networks.

For school business leaders, it is imperative to be familiar with the local mental health services available to students. By understanding what mental health services are accessible locally, they can better advocate for partnerships and help connect students to essential early interventions that can prevent issues from escalating into crises. Additionally, staying informed about these services enables schools to address gaps in support and ensure a comprehensive approach to mental health care, tailored to the unique needs of their student population.

Calls for Further Research

The report further calls on the Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC) to commission research into the availability, quality and accessibility of non-specialist services that support young people’s mental health.

It recommends that to better understand the demand for mental health services, additional research should focus on identifying specific patterns of mental health needs, particularly among vulnerable groups such as girls and young women, ethnic minority groups and LGBTQ+ youth.

For school business leaders, it is crucial to not only be aware of the availability of mental health services but also to enhance understanding of the warning signs of mental health crises that may disproportionately affect minority groups. For instance, young people from ethnic minority backgrounds may face discrimination or cultural stigmas around mental health, while LGBTQ+ youth might experience challenges related to identity, bullying, or isolation.

By being proactive in understanding and addressing the specific mental health needs detailed in the report, school business leaders can play a pivotal role in fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for all students.