Children with speech and language challenges are more likely to have poor mental health but less likely to be able to access effective support. Alongside Speech and Language UK, we're calling for action to tackle this inequity. Approximately 2 million children in the UK (1 in 5) experience some form of speech and language challenge. This is a difficulty in producing or understanding spoken language, impacting their ability to communicate effectively. Children with speech and language challenges struggle particularly with language for emotions, affecting their ability to process thoughts and feelings. ️Most mental health assessments and interventions are delivered through talk, making it harder for children with speech and language challenges to access. Between 45% and 64% of young people referred to mental health services have a language disorder, but many are falling through the gaps when in need of support. We're calling for urgent action to address this: https://www.centreformentalhealth.org.uk/position-statement-mental-health-and-speech-and-language-challenges-in-children-and-young-people-in-the-uk/ #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek #MHAW (fb)

The Government must act now to build a mentally healthier future. It can do so by investing in 6 key areas: 🤰 Training up health visitors to support new mothers’ mental health 👨‍👩‍👦 Increasing access to evidence-based parenting programmes 🫶 Expanding the network of early support hubs for young people 🗣️ Expanding offers within the NHS Talking Therapies programme 💼 Continuing the expansion of Individual Placement and Support (IPS) employment services 🏡 Providing alternatives to hospital admission in a mental health crisis Read more about the difference these investment priorities could make: https://www.centreformentalhealth.org.uk/publications/investment-priorities-for-mental-health-2025/ #SpendingReview #MentalHealth #InvestInMentalHealth (fb)