News Release, 9 January 2001
On Thursday 18 January, around 100 invited professionals and policy-makers will attend a seminar to discuss what measures need to be taken to improve the mental health of children and young people in Scotland. The seminar has been organised by the Mental Health Foundation in Scotland as part of the Children and Young People Mental Health Alliance.
The Mental Health Foundation's earlier report, Bright Futures, revealed that one in five young people under 20 will experience psychological problems ranging from anxiety and depression to psychotic and major development disorders. The Mental Health Foundation believes that the majority of these young people would benefit from support at an early stage, before they reach crisis point, and wants to see this become a reality.
"We need to encourage everybody who works with, or comes into contact with, children and young people to realise that the mental health of children and young people concerns us all," said Maddy Halliday, Scotland director, Mental Health Foundation. "Promoting good mental health for children and young people is something that teachers, parents, doctors and social workers for example should all be aware of, and is as important as children's physical and academic achievements.
"There are some excellent services and support available for children and young people - from self-help and support groups based in youth services to specialist professional units, but getting hold of the right support when you need it can be difficult. We need to make sure that services are well-funded, available throughout Scotland and well-coordinated so that everybody knows what support is available and young people don't get caught in the gaps between services."
Speakers at the seminar, which takes place at the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow, include Malcolm Chisolm, Scottish Executive deputy minister for health and community care, and speakers from voluntary sector organisations including the Mental Health Foundation, Children in Scotland, Penumbra, Children 1st and the Scottish Development Centre for Mental Health Services.
In planning of this event a brief survey of key informants was carried out in order to gain a 'snapshot' of the main themes amongst service providers and policy makers in Scotland.
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For further information and interview requests contact please contact the press office on 020 7803 1105 / 1128 or email the press office
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