Barnardo’s has published a briefing paper on mental health provision for young people in Wales.

The briefing highlights the difficulties faced by many young people with mental health needs, the problems regarding transition between services and the long term legacy of social exclusion they have to live with, as a result of not receiving appropriate support at this crucial time in their lives. In addition, the briefing provides information on the current policy context in Wales and outlines  practice solutions for improving current service provision.

The recommendations for the Welsh Assembly Government, AMs and mental health service providers to address include:

• Solving the problem of young people being excluded from mental health services as a result of substance misuse and other issues
• Providing young-people centred holistic services and adequately resourcing them
• End the practice of adolescents being placed on adult wards
• Including young people in service planning, professional training and peer support.

Click here to download the report.