More than 1 million children were referred to mental health services in England during the 2024-25 period, marking a 10% increase from the previous year. According to children’s commissioner Rachel de Souza, the surge in demand has created a “crisis,” with more than 60,000 children currently waiting over two years for necessary support.
Why are children’s mental health referrals increasing in England?
The rise in demand is driven by several specific factors. Anxiety remains the most frequent reason for help-seeking, accounting for 16% of all referrals according to the report released by de Souza.
A significant portion of the increased volume is also linked to a growth in referrals for suspected autism and neurodevelopmental conditions. These specific cases are currently facing some of the longest wait times within the system.
How long are children waiting for mental health treatment?
Waiting times for specialist care have surged significantly over the last year. The number of children waiting more than two years for support rose to more than 60,000 in 2024-25, up from more than 44,000 the previous year.
The scale of the delay is affecting more than a third of all children currently in the system. Minesh Patel, associate director for evidence, advocacy and performance at Mind, stated that many children are waiting months or even years for support, which can lead to a deterioration in their mental health.
This delay often forces families toward emergency departments. Research from the Royal College of Nursing found that children experiencing a mental health crisis often spend up to three days in an A&E unit before they can secure a bed in a specialist unit.
Comparison of Waiting Lists (2-Year Threshold)
| Reporting Period | Children Waiting >2 Years |
|---|---|
| Previous Year | 44,000+ |
| 2024-25 Period | 60,000+ |
What are the expected trends for mental health services?
The upcoming UK government mental health strategy is expected to be a major factor in how these services evolve. Experts suggest the system must move toward a model that is more responsive and person-centred to handle the volume of neurodevelopmental diagnoses.
Rachel de Souza suggested that future support must move away from isolated medical interventions. She argued that improving wellbeing requires a “joined up” approach that integrates health, education, and social care services.
This shift would likely mean more mental health resources being placed directly within schools and local communities. The goal is to address needs before they escalate into the crises that currently overwhelm A&E departments.
What happens if mental health needs are not met?
Failure to provide timely support can have long-term consequences for a young person’s development. Minesh Patel of Mind warned that long waits increase the likelihood of children needing crisis services or A&E intervention.
Beyond immediate health concerns, untreated mental health issues can impact a child’s education and future employment opportunities. It can also cause significant strain on family relationships and social integration.
The current trend suggests that as demand outpaces system capacity and funding, the pressure on emergency services will continue to rise unless the approach to community-based care changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary cause of mental health referrals in children?
Anxiety is the most common reason, accounting for 16% of all referrals.
How many children are waiting over two years for help?
More than 60,000 children were waiting for more than two years in the 2024-25 period.
Why are A&E departments seeing more mental health crises?
Longer waiting lists for specialist units often result in children being treated in emergency departments while awaiting a bed.
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