MFTC Calls for Better Mental Health Support for Children in Care

At Moving Forward Therapeutic Care, we believe every young person deserves proper mental health support — not just when things reach crisis point, but as part of everyday care. That’s why we were deeply concerned by a recent article from Community Care which revealed how mental health services for looked-after children are still failing to meet their needs. Experts described the current system as “inadequate and unevidenced,” and sadly, that’s something many children and carers would agree with.

The report explains that children in care are far more likely to experience mental health difficulties than other young people — often because of the trauma and instability they’ve faced in early life. But when they ask for help, they often face long waits, rejected referrals, or services that don’t understand their circumstances. In some areas, referrals to CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) are turned down because a child’s placement isn’t “stable enough.” It’s heartbreaking, because instability is often the reason they need support in the first place.

Another worrying point raised in the article is the way “trauma” is being used too vaguely in care settings. While understanding trauma is vital, experts warn that using it as a catch-all term can actually stop children from getting the right help. Instead of clear assessments and evidence-based treatment, some children are left with labels but no real plan of action. This can make them feel misunderstood or even blamed for their own struggles.

At MFTC, we recognise how good mental health care can change a young person’s future. When children are supported by professionals who listen, understand and act quickly, they can start to rebuild confidence, trust, and self-belief. That’s why we make mental and emotional wellbeing a central part of everything we do. Our team receives regular training in trauma-informed practice and child development, and we build close partnerships with local health services to make sure our young people can access the help they need — even when it takes some persistence to get there.

We also believe it’s vital that children themselves have a say in their care. No one understands what they’re going through better than they do. We make space for young people to communicate about how they feel and what kind of support works best for them. Whether that’s through therapy, creative outlets, or just a trusted adult who listens, we tailor support to each child’s needs and preferences.

It’s clear that the national system needs to change — not just to communicate about trauma or resilience, but to provide properly funded, evidence-based services that reach children where they are. That means earlier assessments, stronger coordination between social care and mental health teams, and fewer barriers when young people need help. Every child deserves consistent, effective support, regardless of how often they’ve moved or what their background is.

At MFTC, we’ll keep speaking up for the young people in our care. We’ll keep pushing for joined-up services, better understanding from professionals, and quicker access to the help that truly makes a difference. Because mental health isn’t a luxury — it’s a lifeline.

You can read the full article that inspired this piece on Community Care:
“Mental healthcare for looked-after children ‘inadequate and unevidenced’, warn experts”