There has been an independent review of mental health provision in Kingston and Richmond including feedback from children and young people and their families. The review found that, while the two providers involved are positively supporting children and young people in different aspects of care, moving to a lead provider model (across tier 2 and tier 3 services) would improve care and reduce waiting times.
As a result of this, NHS South West London is intending to have completed a process by the end of March 2025, to appoint a lead provider for children and young people’s mental health services in Kingston and Richmond, aiming for a more streamlined service to be in place by Autumn 2025.
This will mean a change in the way the service is currently being delivered by providers – South West London and St George’s Mental Health Trust and Achieving for Children. We will work together to minimise any disruption to children and young people who are being supported by services, as well as ensuring staff are supported through any changes.
To support the delivery of all the report’s recommendations, which are wider than the procurement exercise, we have set up a Steering Group which comprises of colleagues from education, primary care, contracting, finance, communications and engagement, public health, voluntary sector colleagues and parent/carer representatives.
I will continue to keep you updated as this work progresses, but should you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact me.
Jo Farrar
Chief Executive, Kingston and Richmond NHS Foundation Trust
NHS Executive Lead for Kingston and Richmond
Email: [email protected]