Every school will have a mental health champion

The Times (Rosemary Bennett) reports that schools will have a mental health champion appointed to them to identify and treat children suffering from anxiety, depression or other mental health issues. Over 250 schools have agreed to the trial with a teacher, nurse or teaching assistant to be selected to act as the “point of contact.” That person will work with their local NHS children’s mental health service and aim to get the correct treatment for a child. Education Secretary Nicky Morgan will unveil plans for the trial today, which will be rolled-out if initial tests prove successful. The Times is continuing to campaign for better mental health services, including those for youngsters, while the government has pledged £1.25bn towards mental health over the next five years.