England children’s mental health referrals surpass 1 million, report says
5 reported
A report by the children's commissioner, Rachel de Souza, states that more than 1 million children were referred to mental health services across England in 2024-25, marking the first time referrals have surpassed that threshold. The figure is almost double the number recorded in 2018-19 and represents an almost 10% rise on the previous year. De Souza described the situation as a "crisis" in young people's mental health, noting that the figures are "stark." Anxiety remained the most common reason for referrals, accounting for 16% of them. The report also found that increased demand was partly driven by a growth in referrals for suspected autism and neurodevelopmental conditions, with these children most likely to face some of the longest waits. More than 60,000 children were waiting more than two years for support in 2024-25, up from more than 44,000 the previous year. The Department of Health and Social Care has been approached for comment.
What’s reported
More than 1 million children were referred to mental health services in England in 2024-25, the first time referrals have surpassed 1 million.
This is almost double the number recorded in 2018-19 and an almost 10% rise on the previous year.
Anxiety was the most common reason for referrals, accounting for 16%.
More than 60,000 children were waiting more than two years for support in 2024-25, up from more than 44,000 the previous year.
Increased demand was partly driven by a growth in referrals for suspected autism and neurodevelopmental conditions.
Key figures
Rachel de Souza, children's commissioner for England
Minesh Patel, associate director for evidence, advocacy and performance at Mind
Sources: The Guardian
