The HSE has told GPs in Cork that its specialist service for children experiencing a mental health crisis is closed to new referrals at a time when 162 children are on its waiting list.

Children and families seeking support for emotional, behavioural, and mental health difficulties will have no access to a specialised service for the foreseeable future in Cork North Lee, following the recent departure of a consultant psychiatrist.

Mental health campaigners have said the latest critical report on the state of services should act as a wake-up call to government.

Some of those working in the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) are “pessimistic” about its future and are frustrated with aspects of how it works.

Children continue to be admitted to adult mental health units because of a shortage of beds in child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS).

The Government has failed children with mental health needs, according to the annual report card issued by the Children’s Rights Alliance which said the Government was repeatedly failing to meet its own targets.

The overseas placement of Irish children will continue, writes Noel Baker. It’s time to ensure the ‘before’ and ‘after’ services deliver.

Waiting lists for children and teenagers in need of mental health appointments grew by 24% last year as a surge in demand put services under increased strain.