Charities have called on the government to tackle a ‘dual crisis’ of poverty and children’s mental health.

Saffron Cordery, deputy chief executive, NHS Providers, said:

“This report underscores what NHS trust leaders tell us. Poverty is driving record demand for mental health services and contributing to more complex conditions among children and young people.

“Our own report shows deep concern among NHS trust leaders about meeting demand for services, including mental health, and the impact long waits for care are having on inequalities among children and young people.

“The government has pledged to improve mental health provision for young people and ensure that mental health gets the same attention and focus as physical health.

“Child poverty has been made worse by the cost of living crisis. A cross-government approach to improving the health and wellbeing of children and young people is vital to protect a whole generation at risk of being left behind.”