A Norfolk-based charity supporting young people with mental health challenges has welcomed fresh government investment aimed at improving access to early intervention services. Youth organisation MAP runs early support hubs in King’s Lynn, Great Yarmouth, and Norwich, offering immediate help while young people await NHS treatment.
The Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust has reported a significant drop - over 50% - in waiting list numbers since April 2022. However, many young people still face lengthy waits. Mel, a 15-year-old from King’s Lynn, shared how she waited four years for a referral for PTSD treatment. After her GP declined to refer her to CAMHS, MAP stepped in and helped her secure a place on the NHS waiting list, offering ongoing support throughout.
“I waited years for someone to listen,” Mel said. “Without MAP, I wouldn’t have received the help I needed. We need to address issues early - prevention is far better than cure.” She also pointed to academic pressure as a key factor behind the rise in mental health struggles among her peers.
Labour has confirmed plans to expand early support hubs, which were originally piloted by the previous Conservative government. MAP CEO Dan Mobbs welcomed the funding, highlighting the growing mental health crisis, with one in five young people now affected. Senior mental health worker Dan Klyn stressed that MAP supports anyone in need - regardless of how severe their condition may seem.
