Hospital accident and emergency departments across England are experiencing a significant surge in visits from children and young people experiencing mental health crises, according to analysis by the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health. The data, compiled from Freedom of Information requests to NHS England, revealed that A&E attendances for mental health concerns among patients aged six to 17 increased from 55,525 in 2019 to 75,491 in 2025, representing a 36% rise over the period. The increase has been particularly pronounced among very young children aged six to nine. In total, more than 6,200 young patients, approximately 8% of those attending for mental health reasons, experienced waits exceeding 12 hours in emergency departments.
Medical professionals and mental health advocates emphasize that A&E units are inappropriate venues for children in mental health distress, yet many families report having no alternative options. Cases brought to emergency departments include children experiencing self-harm, eating disorders, and emotional crises, with some exhibiting aggressive or challenging behavior. Physicians note that emergency departments were not designed to provide extended care for mental health emergencies and that the current situation represents a significant strain on the system. Dr. Sam Jones, the RCPCH’s mental health officer, characterized the situation as a national crisis that will deteriorate without prompt action.
Stakeholders attribute the surge partly to gaps in community mental health services and inadequate crisis support infrastructure. Mental health charity Mind highlighted that the current system, which restricts access to services until young people meet specific clinical thresholds, is failing to meet demand. Experts emphasize that expanded investment in children’s mental health services, improved staff training across health and social care sectors, and alternative crisis support facilities are necessary to divert young people from emergency departments. The government indicated plans to publish a new mental health strategy and noted ongoing investments in school-based mental health teams and community mental health hubs in locations including banks and libraries.
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