The national standard on waiting times for children and young
people accessing mental health services in Scotland has been met
for the first time.
Latest Public Health statistics show 90.6% of those who were
referred to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS)
were seen within 18 weeks from October to December– the Scottish
Government standard is 90%.
The figure is an increase from 89.1% for the previous quarter and
from 83.8% for the same quarter in 2023.
Mental Wellbeing Minister said:
“This continued progress is testament to the dedication of the
staff who work so hard to help the children and young people they
care for.
“We want everyone to get the support they need, when they need
it. Clearly, reaching the national standard is encouraging but I
know there is much more to be done if this is to be sustained and
consistent across Scotland.
“However, we are on the right path and the £123 million we have
allocated to NHS Boards this year will mean the quality and
delivery of all mental health services – including CAMHS - will
continue to improve.”
Background
Child and Adolescent
Mental Health Services (CAMHS) waiting times - Quarter ending
December 2024 - Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services
(CAMHS) waiting times - Publications - Public Health Scotland
The national CAMHS standard was set in 2014.
CAMHS is only the right service for a small proportion of
children and young people. To provide an alternative, the
Scottish Government has provided targeted investment of over £65
million in community-based mental health support, between 2020
and 2024-25, and £16 million annual spend on school counselling
services is in addition to this.
The National CAMHS specification is clear that children and young
people whose referral is not accepted are sensitively and
appropriately signposted to a more suitable service, such as
those provided within community.
