We were commissioned to conduct a process evaluation of a new NHS pilot project that involves embedding child and adolescent mental health workers in local secondary schools.  Our research involved quantitative survey data as well as detailed interviews and focus groups with the mental health workers, school staff, and young people across the secondary school age range (11-16 years), in order to understand how and to what extent integrated support for young people's mental health and well-being can be enhanced. Our work addressed issues relating to:  awareness of mental health support that is available; the integration of universal and targeted work in this area; the way in which mental health support relates to relationships among and between pupils and staff at school; and the attitudes to mental health difficulties (including stigmatising belief sorkistems) among young people. For key findings and implications, please see the summary extract from the report.

The project involved close collaboration with Tracey Williams from the Brighton & Hove City Council Educational Psychology Service, and Lucy Roberts was the Research Assistant for the project.