THERE has been a dramatic rise in the number of children in England being referred for emergency mental health treatment, according to a new analysis.

Analysis of official data by the Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCP) shows a 53 per cent rise in referrals to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services crisis teams in England.

The body said many of these under-18s have suffered worsening mental health while on NHS waiting lists for treatment, some of which last almost two years.

RCP child and adolescent faculty chairwoman Dr Elaine Lockhart said the government and integrated care boards must commit to reducing the rate of mental illness among children by setting an achievable target.

“This needs to be backed by an expansion of the mental health workforce and additional funding for services,” she said.

“Investing in children’s mental health will ultimately free up NHS time and resources while ensuring the country has a healthy and productive population in the years to come.”

An NHS England spokeswoman said the service is treating more young people than ever and that early support for children and young people with mental health issues is a priority.