Ahead of the General Election being held in December, the Children and Young People’s Mental Health Coalition (CYPMHC) has published its manifesto, calling on all political parties, and the next government to prioritise the mental health of children and young people this General Election. stem4 is a proud member of the CYPMHC and is pleased to endorse the manifesto, the demands of which align with stem4’s on-going mission and work.
The manifesto calls on the next government to ensure parents and carers have access to advice and support that will enable them to maintain good mental health, relationships at home, and their children’s wellbeing. Having sought to educate and support parents and carers through conferences, digital resources and, of course, the Combined Minds app, stem4 has long believed in the importance of families in fostering positive mental health in young people. As important influences in the lives of young people, family can be crucial in providing a positive impact on their loved one’s mental health. Parents and carers deserve help in finding ways to provide the right environment for the individuals they support, as well as in maintaining their own mental well-being. Every parent should, therefore, not only theoretically have access to support, but should know how to gain such support.
stem4 also echoes the demand for investment in evidence-based early intervention initiatives that meet the rights of all young people to the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, supporting timely, age-appropriate, community-based services. Early intervention and prompt action in treating commonly occurring mental health problems is a founding principle of stem4. This principle has a strong evidence base itself and is crucial in ensuring mental health issues do not unnecessarily affect young people into their adulthood. Early intervention and prevention of mental health problems is not only better for young people, it is a better use of resources. Thus, investment into preventative measures, especially for those more at risk of developing mental health issues, is both crucial and beneficial to all.
In order for these aims to be achieved, it is vital that a holistic approach is taken. There must be a cross-party and cross-departmental approach to children and young people’s mental health. This approach must place children and young people at the heart of the Government’s wider social agenda. In turn, there should be a whole school, college and university culture that promotes positive mental health and wellbeing for both pupils and staff. stem4 is proud to support such a vision and calls upon all political parties to embrace the manifesto.
You can read the full manifesto HERE.
