This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Framework for Children's and Young People's Mental Health
24/10/2005
A Framework for Children's and Young People's Mental Health was launched today.
Deputy Health Minister Lewis Macdonald launched the Framework in a speech to a Young People's Mental Well-being conference in Edinburgh. The Framework sets out an integrated approach for all agencies who work with children and young people.
Mr Macdonald said:
"We are committed to improving the health of our nation. We know this cannot be achieved simply by improving physical health, which is why improving mental health is a priority for us.
"We must ensure consistent, high quality care and support for those children and young people experiencing mental health problems, wherever they live. This Framework will provide the impetus for change and improvement in the way that agencies and professionals do that.
"Implementing the Framework will be challenging, which is why we will help support local agencies through the changes necessary to meet the requirements of the Framework.
"I am therefore delighted to announce £1 million additional funding over two years to support this transformation."
On the conference, Mr Macdonald commented:
"Today's conference is about young people and for young people. I am pleased to have this opportunity today to speak directly with young people about the issues that matter to them.
"Events like this are a great way for us all to learn from each other. I am grateful they have given their time to highlight what they want and need."
Anne Clarke, Director of HeadsUpScotland, said:
"The launching of this Framework heralds a new chapter in the promotion of positive mental health, the prevention of mental illness and delivery of improved mental health services. It is relevant to all agencies who have a role in supporting children and young people's mental health.
"This is a challenging agenda and the Framework will provide a valuable guide."
16 year old Louise, Co-Chair at the conference, said:
"This is a great way for young people to tell the politicians and the professionals what they think about the issues that affect them.
"I hope that I will be able to encourage the young people in the audience to ask questions and talk about their own experiences. This might mean that they can help others to have the confidence to help themselves and people they know who are living with mental health issues."
In December 2004 the Executive launched a consultation on a draft of Children and Young People's Mental Health: A Framework for Promotion, Prevention and Care.
The Executive's National Programme for Improving Mental Health and Well-being has the following vision: to improve the mental health of everyone in Scotland and to improve the quality of life, well-being and social inclusion of people who experience mental illness or mental health problems.
The National Programme has four main aims:
- Raise awareness and promote positive mental and well-being
- Eliminate stigma and discrimination in relation to mental ill health
- Prevent suicide and support people bereaved by suicide
- Promote and support recovery