“This report reinforces the urgent need for a root-and-branch overhaul of children’s mental health services, and for the NHS to work with councils to develop a system that says yes, rather than no, to children when they ask for help.

“Councils across the country work hard to ensure children and young people can access the support they need, however with children’s services facing a £3 billion funding gap by 2025, this is getting increasingly difficult.  

“As a result, many councils are being forced to cut early intervention work, including youth services, which helps children avoid reaching crisis point, perform better at school and avoid mental health issues in later life.

“This has been compounded by government cuts to councils’ public health funding, which also helps young people to get the best start in life.

“Our Bright Futures campaign is calling for councils and schools to be given the funding to offer independent mental health counselling so children have access to support as and when they need it. Government should also release the £1.7 billion promised for CAMHS services to ensure adequate and sustainable funding for local areas.”