Personal Reflections on the Development of an Integrated Service Delivery for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services

Abstract

This paper explores the issue of how to develop a greater level of integration across the continuum services to young people with mental health difficulties. Reference is made to the strategic guidance offered by key documents and a pilot project is described, which attempted to link services across providers including a specialist Child and Adolescent Mental Health Teams, Paediatricians, a Family Centre, a schools’ counselling service, the voluntary sector and the Youth Justice agency. The achievements of the pilot are noted, as are some of the difficulties encountered. The potential for further development is also considered.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Sam Allison

Mr Sam Allison is the Team Leader, Newton Abbey Family Centre

David Gilliland

Mr David Gilliland is the Assistant Director in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, Homefirst Trust

Kathy Mayhew

Mrs Kathy Mayhew is a link social worker

Richard Wilson

Dr Richard Wilson is a consultant child and adolescent psychiatrist