The report makes a number of proposals the government wishes to see by 2020. These include tackling stigma and improving attitudes to mental illness; introducing more access and waiting time standards for services; establishing ‘one stop shop’ support services in the community; and improving access for children and young people who are particularly vulnerable.

It sets out how much of this can be achieved through better working between the NHS, local authorities, voluntary and community services, schools and other local services.It also makes it clear that many of these changes can be achieved by working differently, rather than needing significant investment.

Anna Bradley, Chair of Healthwatch England, said: “The increasing importance being placed on mental health at the moment is really encouraging, and the Government should be applauded for both the intent behind this report and for promising additional investment in children’s mental health services.

“9 out of 10 stories shared with local Healthwatch by children and young people paint a picture of long waiting times, poor communication between services and stigma. In particular we heard of the ‘cliff-edge’ faced by 18 year-olds at the transition to adult social care services.

“There is a clear need for change and we hope that by focusing on prevention and early intervention, as well as improving access to services, this drive for improvement will see young people and their families get the help and support they need.”

“The key now is to see these aspirations translated into reality and we want to see the next Government make implementing the taskforce’s findings a priority. Whatever happens, local Healthwatch is, and will continue to be, a reality check on the ground for reviewing the access to and quality of CAMHS.”You can find the full taskforce report here:

Click here