It is vital that we protect the mental health of children and young people in our society. In recent years, we as a society have made great strides in understanding mental health issues, and it is only right that this change be accompanied by a transformation for the better of mental health services.
You are right to raise the excellent work that Childline in particular does. Those growing up in the United Kingdom today experience a range of pressures and risks in a changing world, and Childline provides them with a safe, supportive, and confidential space that empowers them to improve their wellbeing. I am, therefore, encouraged by the UK Government’s commitment of £2 million per year to the NSPCC to assist with the running of Childline.
In Scotland, healthcare is a devolved issue, and so the provision and funding of mental health care for children here is the responsibility of the Scottish Government. Unfortunately, recent data shows that the majority of Scotland’s fourteen NHS boards are failing to meet the 18 week waiting time target, and despite this, only four boards have said they are increasing children’s mental health funding by substantially more than last year.
I believe it is time for the Scottish Government to follow the UK Government’s lead, recognise the importance of this issue, and commit to drastic improvements in children’s mental health services in Scotland in the near future. I know that my Scottish Conservative colleagues in Holyrood share this belief, and will continue to hold the Scottish Government to account on this issue.