The letter to health and social care secretary Wes Streeting followed the Govermment's announcement of a £7m funding boost for Early Support Hubs.

Rebecca Light, BABCP's chief accreditation officer and registrar, said: ‘Extending funding is welcome, but prevention cannot be built on annual renewals and limited coverage. If we are serious about reducing waiting lists, improving school attendance and supporting young people into education and work, early support must include consistent access to evidence-based therapy delivered by a properly trained workforce.'

With youth mental health need at record levels, BABCP said the current 24 hubs across more than 150 local authority areas cannot meet demand across England.

The letter highlights growing evidence that youth mental health is directly linked to education outcomes, employment prospects and long-term economic participation.

It also seeks clarification on the Government's plans for long-term funding and resourcing to ensure children and young people have prompt access to evidence-based treatment such as CBT. 

Mental health difficulties are a significant driver of young people becoming NEET (not in education, employment or training). Almost 30% of 11–16-year-olds with a probable mental disorder missed a week or more of school last year, compared to 10% of peers without a condition. Among 18–24-year-olds in employment, 35% reported taking time off due to poor mental health or stress. Research also shows prolonged NEET status is associated with higher long-term risks of hospitalisation and mortality.