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Written question asked by Lord Alton of Liverpool (Crossbench) on Tuesday, 7 July 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 21 July 2026. It was answered by Baroness Merron (Labour) on Monday, 13 July 2026 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

Mental Health Services: Children

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the report of the Children’s Commissioner into children’s mental health services in England; and what plans they have to implement the recommendation that children’s mental health must be addressed by the Department for Education and the Department of Health and Social Care working closely together.

Answer

The Government welcomes the Children’s Commissioner’s report, which highlights pressures on children and young people’s mental health services, including rising demand, long waits, and the need for better support for children with neurodevelopmental and special educational and disabilities needs. The findings of this report will play an important role in shaping our cross-Government Mental Health Strategy and the wider reforms we are delivering to improve outcomes and opportunities for children and young people.

We understand supporting mental health is a whole-Government challenge, as many of the foundations of good mental health, such as housing, employment, and social connection, sit beyond the National Health Service. The Mental Health Strategy will bring together action across health, education, local government, workplaces, and the voluntary sector into a joined-up approach to improve mental health and wellbeing. It will have a core focus on prevention, earlier intervention, and coordinated support so that children and young people receive the right help, at the right time, close to where they live and learn.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL1710
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Children Children's Commissioner for England Mental health services Departmental coordination
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk