The waiting crisis
CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) waiting times across England are unacceptable. Many children wait 12-18 months or longer for an initial assessment, and even longer for treatment. During this time, their mental health often deteriorates, their education suffers, and families are left to cope alone. This is not acceptable - and there are things you can do.
Your legal rights
Under the NHS Constitution, you have the right to access services within maximum waiting times. The NHS Long Term Plan committed to expanding CAMHS access, and your child has a right to timely assessment and treatment. If CAMHS is part of your child's EHCP provision (Section G), the local authority has a duty to ensure it is delivered. If it's not being delivered because of waiting times, that's a breach of the plan.
What to do while you wait
Don't just wait. Ask your GP about alternative pathways - some areas have community mental health teams, school-based counselling, or voluntary sector services. Consider a private assessment if you can afford it (this can also be used as evidence for an EHCP). Contact your child's school about their pastoral support. And keep a detailed diary of your child's difficulties - this evidence is invaluable.
Escalation
If the wait is dangerously long, escalate. Write to the Clinical Commissioning Group (now Integrated Care Board) responsible for CAMHS in your area. Copy in your MP. Make a formal complaint through the NHS complaints process. If your child is at risk, contact the crisis team - you should not be told to wait when a child is in crisis.
CAMHS and EHCPs
If your child has mental health needs that affect their education, these should be addressed in an EHCP. CAMHS input can appear in Section C (health needs) and Section G (health provision) of the plan. If your child needs mental health support to access education, it may also belong in Section F (educational provision), making it legally enforceable. EHCP Expert can help you argue for the right provision in the right section.