In a recent survey, parents and carers told us about the challenges they continue to face in finding the right service to support their child.  In response, we are sharing the guidance we co-designed with parents that describes where, how, and when to access support for children and young people's mental health issues.

The guidance explains the signs and symptoms children and young people could be facing, the steps to take, and the range of support available, including self-help resources. Knowing the signs and acting as early as possible, can improve the long-term outcomes for the child, young person, and their family.

The guidance has been split in two for:

 

The full guidance is available here: www.portsmouth.gov.uk/SEMHguidance

For anyone aged 16 and over, the Portsmouth Mental Health Hub is a free mental health phoneline, helping Portsmouth residents find the right support for them. You can call 0300 123 6621 8am-6pm Monday to Friday or visit www.mentalhealthinportsmouth.co.uk