This information will help to inform the design and development of specialist services for children and young people in Kent and Medway, Sussex and Hampshire & Isle of Wight.
Key findings are being evaluated and themes are being drawn together to develop a plan to address the health needs and any inequalities identified through the assessment. The work to date has involved input from our key stakeholders including CAMHS Tier 4 staff, core CAMHS staff and parents, carers and young people, to ensure the views of those who work in and use the service are captured.
The Health Needs Assessment has found that intensive community-based treatment programmes such as Closer2Home and the Spring Tide Eating Disorder Day Service are offering alternative options for young people who might have been admitted to a Tier 4 inpatient bed, and that service user engagement is critical to ensure the needs of children and young people and their families are fully understood.
Following the completion of the Health Needs Assessment in December, we will share the learnings and work closely with providers, young people and other key stakeholders to embed the recommendations.