Discussion takes part over mental health for youths

Discussion takes part over mental health for youths

13 February 2019

KEY players from a number of organisations took part in a discussion last week on the crucially important issue of mental health and young people.

They gathered at the Down Arts Centre in Downpatrick at the invitation of South Down MLA Colin McGrath to mark Children’s Mental Health Week.

Officials from a wide range of statutory, voluntary and charitable organisations to took part in a discussion on the importance of youth mental health care, what provisions are available to children and young people and what needs to happen next to ensure children they are adequately cared for.

Delighted with the success of the event, Mr McGrath said those who took part each contributed “something of real significance”.

He continued: “Their compassion and consideration for children and young people in their care, whether they be in a sporting organisation or a work environment, came across profoundly in the contributions they made.  

“We discussed the many reasons why children and young people are facing mental health matters at present, especially in rural areas, looking at what provisions are in place for them in the arenas they find themselves in, whether that’s school, youth club, sports club or some other organisation and what we would like to see happen next.”

Mr McGrath is currently collating the views of the speakers to provide a summary for various bodies to see how individuals and organisations make youth mental health provision as strong as possible. 

He argued that in the absence of a Stormont Assembly and lack of ministers, it will mean approaching a number of permanent secretaries to discuss the issue further.  

“One of the issues which came across strongly was the importance for children and young people knowing that they are not alone,” he continued.

“It is vital for families to know that they are not alone either and in our work for children and young people we need to be prepared for the possibility that their parents or guardians may need someone to reach out to as well.  

“Mental health is like a Pandora’s box. As soon as you open it, the contents are so vast and wide ranging and it will only be through working together with agencies and having discussions that we are going to be able to get a good handle on this matter.”

Mr McGrath thanked everyone who took part in last week’s event, emphasising that the discussion “is only the beginning” and looks forward to the task ahead.