Norfolk, Ontario Expand Youth Mental Health Support Grants

A charity supporting youth mental health, MAP, has welcomed additional government funding for early support hubs in Norfolk, which provide immediate assistance to young people waiting for NHS care. Since April 2022, the number of young people on waiting lists for mental health services has decreased by over 50%. A 15-year-old named Mel shared her experience of waiting four years for a referral, highlighting the importance of early intervention and support from charities like MAP. The scheme, originally piloted by the Conservative government, will be expanded under Labour as mental health issues among youth continue to rise, with one in five young people affected. MAP's chief executive emphasized the need for accessible help for those deemed 'not sick enough' for NHS care. The initiative signifies a broader commitment to addressing mental health challenges among young people in the region.