The NHS says its mental health services for children and young people may be called CAMHS, and groups them under the wider heading of children and young people's mental health services, sometimes shortened to CYPMHS. They include specialist community teams and Mental Health Support Teams (MHSTs) in schools and colleges. Names, referral routes and criteria vary a lot between areas. The NHS says a GP, teacher, school nurse or social worker can put a family in touch with local services, and some services accept self-referrals. Check your local service's website for how it works where you are.
Where schools fit. KCSIE 2026 says only trained professionals should diagnose mental health problems, but school staff can promote wellbeing, spot concerns early, make sure targeted support is in place and liaise with or refer to specialist services (paragraph 228). It encourages schools to use their MHST where they have one. MHSTs give early, evidence-based support and help schools link with specialist services (paragraph 232).
Common confusions:
- A CAMHS referral is not a safeguarding referral. If a mental health concern suggests a child may be suffering or at risk of significant harm, follow your child protection procedures as well (KCSIE paragraph 227).
- Waiting for CAMHS is not a reason to delay support in school, including SEN support where the needs are SEND-related.
- If there is an immediate risk to life, call 999 or go to A&E.