For when children and young people find it hard to cope
Getting mental health support early can help prevent difficulties from getting bigger. This page briefly outlines emotional and mental health triage (EMHT) for parents/carers.
Early prevention is key
Many children and young people experience worries, big emotions, or low mood at times. Getting support early can prevent difficulties from growing.
You might notice:
- Worries or anxiety that don’t seem to settle
- Changes in mood, behaviour or confidence
- Difficulties with sleep, school or friendships
- Emotional distress linked to change, loss, or transition
What is emotional and mental health triage (EMHT)?
Emotional and mental health triage (EMHT) helps professionals think together about the right emotional and mental health support that a child or young person needs.
It’s about understanding the needs and providing joined up support to offer access to early help.
What EMHT looks like
EMHT is:
- Professionals working together
- Focused on the right support at the right time
What EMHT is NOT:
- It is not a diagnosis
- It is not an assessment
- It is not a crisis service
Nothing happens without parental knowledge and agreement, unless there are immediate safety concerns.
How to get support
If you are worried about your child:
- Speak with a trusted professional such as a teacher, health visitor, housing officer or social worker
- Contact the One Reading Partnership team.
Email: onereading@reading.gov.uk - Contact the Children’s Single Point of Access (CSPoA)
Tel: 0118 937 3641 (Option 1) or Email: cspoa@reading.gov.uk - If your child or young person requires urgent mental health support, please use the CAMHS Crisis Line: 0300 247 0000 or call NHS 111.
Mental Health Support Teams (MHST) in Reading
For more information about Mental Health Support Teams in Reading visit: Mental Health Support Teams.
Information for young people
We also have an information page for young people – click the button below.