National Assembly for Wales

Children, Young People and Education Committee

CAM 01

Inquiry into Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS)

Evidence from : Jason Hughes

There is little to say other than the fact the majority of professionals working with young people in Wales would say the mental health services available to young people in Wales is near non-existence.  I work both as a school governor and as a senior manager with young people in care and in both sectors waiting lists are extensive (more than 2 years) consultations are meaningless and services to looked after children - the majority of which have mental health traumatic experiences is appalling for a western nation.  It could be questioned that the lack of resources means that too many young people are being given drugs as trauma counselling takes up too much time. The sad thing is that in every profession I speak to the reaction when someone says a referral to CAMHS is needed is to roll one’s eyes, a clear indication is that the service has lost all credibility.  It is a closed shop providing little effective service and for me it is one service that needs removing as overhauling has not made things any better.  In reality it is sadly a laughing stock which is sickening as the stakes are so high for these young people.

Jason Hughes