In an attempt to challenge rising concerns about mental illnesses in young people, a new support service for children with mental health issues has been launched. According to a report by The Independent, the new interactive resource ‘MindEd’ directs visitors to sections including ‘risky behaviour’, ‘eating disorders’, ‘sexual orientation and gender’ and ‘being a parent in the digital age’ for expert advice.

The MindEd website explains: ‘Our aim is to provide simple, clear guidance on children and young people’s mental health, wellbeing and development to any adult working with children, young people and families, to help them support the development of young healthy minds.’

Statistics show that at present, 850,000 children aged 5-16 in the UK are living with a mental health issue. This means that in a typical school classroom, at least three children will be affected.

Nick Harrop, Media and Campaigns Manager at YoungMinds, a charity specialising in young peoples’ mental health, explained: “We know that early intervention is crucial but many local authorities have repeatedly had their budgets slashed on things like social workers, support programmes for parents, educational psychologists and targeted mental health services in schools. “This has put a huge burden on services further up the chain, which simply can’t cope with the demand. Young people referred to specialised mental health services are now at the mercy of a postcode lottery.”