A new online mental health platform that acts as a “one stop shop” for children, young people, parents and professionals to make referrals into partnership mental health services in Liverpool and Sefton has gone live.
The all-in-one nature of the app means users can get access to a wide range of mental health services, through one referral form. The digital service also provides users with a library of resources, advice, support and information on what to do if they need urgent help.
The project involves Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool CAMHS and Sefton CAMHS, with an aim to make referring to and accessing the right services easier.
Lisa Cooper, Director of Community and Mental Health Services at Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Seven in 10 children and young people who experience mental health conditions in the UK have not had appropriate interventions at a sufficiently early age. Part of the problem can be knowing what is available and accessibility. The new digital platform makes the process so much easier to self-refer and also gives children and young people online support before they see a clinician.
“Mental health is just as important as physical health and this past year has had a huge impact on our children and young people. We’ve seen more than double the amount of crisis cases than the previous year. I’m thrilled that with this new platform we are pioneering the future for digitising healthcare and helping some of our most vulnerable children and young people get the help they so desperately need and deserve.”
Lisa Nolan, Programme Manager for children and young people’s mental health at Liverpool CCG, added: “This is an exciting development which will improve access to mental health support for the population of children and young people and their families. A true example of co-production and collaboration between the CAMHS Partnerships across Liverpool and Sefton, Alder Hey Innovation team, CCGs, digital partners and children, young people and families. This digital development will ensure quicker access to information, advice, resources and support for children and young people across both Liverpool and Sefton.”
The resource is now live for residents of Liverpool and Sefton. For more information, click here.
