For most children, school is where they spend much of their time growing up. It is where they learn, make friends, discover new interestsand gradually become more independent. When a young person is struggling with their mental health, each of those things can become more difficult.
That is why early support matters. Problems that are recognised quickly are often easier to address, helping young people remain engaged with school and preventing difficulties from becoming more serious.
There is a clear connection between mental health and attendance. When children are anxious or overwhelmed, they are often more likely to miss lessons. The more time they spend away from school, the harder it can be to rebuild confidence, reconnect with classmates and return to a regular routine. Breaking that cycle early can make a lasting difference, not only to a child’s wellbeing but also to their education.
That is why I welcome the continued expansion of the Labour Government’s Mental Health Support Teams in schools, including the recent announcement of two new teams being established across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.
These teams work alongside schools to provide early support for children and young people. They help to identify concerns sooner, offer practical interventions and work with staff to create environments where pupils are better able to succeed. They also support schools in developing a wider approach to mental health, recognising that no two children will face exactly the same challenges or benefit from exactly the same support.
Importantly, this is about bringing help closer to where children already are. Families should not have to reach crisis point before support becomes available. By working within schools, Mental Health Support Teams can often identify concerns earlier, provide practical help and, where necessary, ensure children are referred on for more specialist care.
The approach is already making a difference. Nearly six million children and young people can now access support through a Mental Health Support Team, around 800,000 more than a year ago. Schools report improvements in pupils’ wellbeing, while many also say the teams are helping to improve attendance and strengthen their overall approach to mental health.
Labour has committed to ensuring every school and college has access to a Mental Health Support Team by 2029. Alongside wider investment in children’s mental health, free breakfast clubs and work to improve attendance, it reflects a broader commitment to giving every child the support they need to make the most of their education.
Parents across North West Cambridgeshire want to know that if their child begins to struggle, help will be available. Teachers want to know they can draw on specialist expertise while continuing to do what they do best: helping young people learn, grow and fulfil their potential.
Every child deserves the opportunity to achieve and thrive. Expanding access to mental health support in schools is an important step towards making sure more young people have the confidence, resilience and support they need to look forward to the future with confidence.