Liverpool’s Integrated Children and Young People’s Mental Health Offer (0-25 years)
In Liverpool, mental health support for children and young people aged 0-25 and their families is delivered as a collaborative approach.
A partnership of NHS providers and 3rd sector organisations work together to provide services across different levels of need, from prevention – being mentally healthy – to high levels of specialist help.
Parents, carers, professionals and young people can make an online referral. Our ‘While You’re Waiting’ guide explains the tools, resources, and support available while waiting for an initial assessment (after a referral).
The children and young people’s mental heal offer is based on a stepped model of care, complementing Liverpool’s Levels of Need Framework. Children and young people can access the offer’s pathway at any stage, depending on their mental health needs.
The focus is on ensuring that children, young people, and their families are supported at the universal level within their communities.
Levels of need, what do we mean by…
Liverpool’s mental health support for children and young people
These easy-to-read snapshots will help you understand the mental health support available for you based on your thoughts, feelings and behaviours – your levels of need. The documents then go on to explain how this support can be accessed. Click on the age-appropriate button to view the snapshot.
View and download the Liverpool Children & Young People’s Mental Health Integrated Offer Model.
Eating problems and disorders in children and young people
If you’re concerned about a child or young person’s relationship with food and body image, this page provides easy-to-read snapshots that explain what’s happening and what to look for.
Crisis Support
The Liverpool Crisis Care team provides support, advice and guidance to children, families and professionals in crisis, 24/7.
YPAS Walk In Support Hub (WISH) provides same-day mental health support for children, young people, and families in Merseyside. Formerly known as Alternative to Crisis drop-in, the service continues to offer the same support across all three hubs in Merseyside.
Their practitioners can support children, young people, and families with emotional wellbeing needs and advise on various practical support issues. They will provide information, advice, and guidance and sometimes offer low-intensity CBT-based support models.
In-patient care
Some children and young people may need more specialist support, requiring admission to an inpatient unit. Several in-patient units across the UK support children and young people’s mental health. They’re commissioned and coordinated through NHS England.
For young adults aged over 18, Mersey Care provides in-patient support locally.
How to get involved in the child and young person’s mental health offer
The engagement and involvement of children, young people and families are at the heart of Liverpool’s mental health partnership. Throughout the year, many opportunities exist to design, deliver and evaluate the offer.
This page provides more information about how to get involved, share your views, and help develop services.