Young people lack confidence in seeking support, survey reveals

One third of young people say they lack confidence in asking their schools for support when feeling worried or concerned, a mental health survey has revealed.

Some 1,000 11-16 year-olds took part in the survey, part of BBC School Report’s annual news day, which this year had the theme of mental health and wellbeing in schools.

More than two thirds (70%) of young people said they have experienced negative feelings in the past year, ranging from being upset and unhappy to being anxious, frightened or unsafe.

• 41% said their schools had dedicated people to talk to, with those living in London and the south of England more likely to have someone than the North, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.
• 34% of pupils admitted they would not feel confident asking for help from their schools.

A separate survey by BBC School Report of 700 teachers found over one third had not had any training on mental health issues. One quarter said they would not know how to refer a young person in mental distress for help.

Minister for vulnerable children and families Edward Timpson told the BBC the government is working to ‘transform mental health services in schools’.

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