New Shropshire children's mental health service to launch

Mid‑Pennine NHS Foundation Trust (MPFT) has announced a new service model designed to narrow gaps in mental‑health care for children and young people, with a particular focus on those most vulnerable.

Key Initiatives

A spokesperson said the trust will work to reduce inequalities in access, outcomes and experience, especially for children in care and those with special educational needs and disabilities. The plan also includes strengthening the autism and ADHD offer and expanding community‑based support for eating difficulties, disorders, early help and medical monitoring.

Support in local schools will continue to expand through mental health support teams, with MPFT aiming to reach all schools in its area by 2030. For children and young people already receiving support from BeeU, the trust confirmed that their care will continue unchanged.

Did You Know? MPFT has set a target to have mental‑health support teams operating in every school within its jurisdiction by 2030.

Why It Matters

According to Cathy Riley of MPFT, the trust “understands the needs of the local community have changed in recent years.” The new model prioritises easier access, earlier support and more joined‑up care, aiming to address long‑standing disparities for children facing complex needs.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that integrating community‑based services with school‑based teams could create a more seamless pathway for early intervention, which is crucial for conditions like autism, ADHD and eating disorders. By maintaining continuity for existing BeeU recipients, the trust avoids disruption while expanding its reach.

Looking Ahead

The transformation of these services is slated to continue over the next three years. If the community’s input is incorporated as promised, the model could evolve to further close gaps in care, potentially leading to broader coverage and more timely interventions for vulnerable youth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which groups are specifically targeted by MPFT’s new service model?

The model aims to reduce inequalities for vulnerable groups, including children in care and those with special educational needs and disabilities.

What changes are planned for autism and ADHD services?

MPFT will strengthen its autism and ADHD offer as part of the new service model.

Will children already receiving support from BeeU lose their care?

No. The trust confirmed that care for children and young people already receiving support from BeeU will continue.

How do you think these changes might affect the everyday lives of families with special educational needs?

New Shropshire children’s mental health service to launch