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Have Your Say on the Future of Mental Health Support for Children and Young People

June 15, 2026

A major parliamentary inquiry has launched a national survey to hear directly from families and young adults about their experiences of mental health services – and YPAS is urging everyone who is eligible to take part.

The Education Committee and the Health and Social Care Committee have joined forces to investigate the mental health support available to children and young people aged 0–25. As part of this inquiry, they want to understand where help can be accessed across education, health and community settings, how effective that support feels and what needs to change.

The survey is anonymous, takes just 5–10 minutes to complete, and is open to:

Young people aged 18 and over who have used mental health services
Parents or guardians of children and young people who have accessed mental health support

At YPAS, we see every day how the right support at the right time can transform a young person’s life. But we also hear about the gaps, the waiting lists and the moments when families feel lost. This survey is a rare and valuable opportunity to turn those experiences into meaningful change. Please don’t stay quiet – your story matters.

The survey closes at 11:59 pm on Sunday 28 June 2026. No personal or identifying information should be included.

Take the survey now

You can find more information about the survey and its purpose HERE

I want to thank Caz and Paula for an amazing 10 weeks. I have learnt so much in such a small amount of time. Understanding why my son shows certain behaviours. I also have learnt a lot about myself. Home is a much happier place. Best course I have been on and would definitely recommend to other parents. Again, can’t thank Caroline and Paula enough No judgment just understanding and so caring and helpful.
Parent/Carer

To Kate, thank you so much for everything, you've helped me so much. Thank you for helping me realise just how beautiful everything is.
Young Person

I can’t thank Lucy enough. She went over and above my expectations. Extending Eve’s sessions and having some real breakthroughs with her. She finished off with a really lovely party for Eve that included all of her favourite things. Well above and beyond.
Parent/Carer

I really enjoyed my time with Jeanette. She made me feel heard, valued and always remained professional. I was nervous about starting to talk therapy, but she immediately put me at ease and allowed me to get the most out of my sessions from the get-go. I would recommend her services to anyone, she’s friendly, personable and takes so much pride in her work. A real asset to the YPAS team.
Young Person

Seedlings Anna and Emma are amazing they put children 1st and are always willing to support and help families. They build amazing relationships with children, my daughter feels comfortable with both Emma and Anna and was able to communicate her thoughts and feelings which is really difficult for Amelia to do. I have only had a positive experience working with seedlings.

Parent/Carer

I felt very well listened to and I always felt like I could come here after a bad day and just talk to Jade about my feelings and not feel like I was getting judged.

Young Person

Lauren Marsh has provided counselling for my daughter. She started counselling and was unhappy with various things and needed an outside source of support. Lauren provided this service with sensitivity and care, which has helped my daughter come out of her shell and discuss the things that have been bothering her. Lauren has offered an insight on my daughters’ parents on certain concerns that have been raised, during the sessions. As a dad, I can see a huge difference in my daughter’s general mood. She seems to manage her emotions well and is more open about various things that are bothering her. I am so grateful for Lauren’s care and support. My daughter has been comfortable enough to open up. Lauren also raised concerns about progressing into grief counselling, which I felt was incredibly considerate, ensuring mu daughters mental wellbeing was catered for outside of counselling sessions.

Parent/Carer

The sessions with Caitlin in school helped me to have someone to talk to without judgement but an outsider observation.

Young Person

Dear Meg and the team. I cannot express enough the gratitude, thanks and praise for your organisation. Meg: thank you for the time spent with my granddaughter and myself. Your knowledge, professionalism and kindness were outstanding. Reception: So kind and caring. Enquiries dealt with compassionately with excellent signposting. A big pat on the back to you all. I dread to think where this city would be without your organisation.

Parent/Carer

Jodie was very nice and helpful when I didn't know what to do about my anxiety. I am finished now and feel confident to manage my anxiety myself and know a lot about it to help others, I feel a lot less anxious

Young Person