NDA Submission on Public Consultation on the Development of National Standards for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services

The NDA’s submission to the Mental Health Commission highlighted key considerations for the development of disability-inclusive standards, rooted in an integrated, child-rights and disability-rights framing. Recognising that disabled people have the right to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health without discrimination on the basis of disability, the NDA drew attention to the fact that long-term mental health difficulties are a disability, that disabled people are disproportionately affected by mental ill health, and that there are significant barriers currently to accessing disability-inclusive healthcare, including for children and young people with co-existing neurodevelopmental and mental health needs.

In developing CAMHS standards, the NDA gave guidance on ensuring an evidence-informed and learning agenda, underpinned by robust testing, review and consultation mechanisms; on prioritising the voice of children, young people and their families – including those with disability – in line with a co-production model; and on embedding Universal Design principles across the full-service pathway. The NDA made recommendations relating to issues of consent, functional capacity assessments, and the right to be heard for young people, as well as on giving due consideration to an intersectional, holistic model that prioritises continuity of care throughout the life-course.