More than 720 children on Camhs waiting lists in Cork

MORE than 720 children were on waiting lists for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (Camhs) across Cork at the end of September, The Echo can reveal.

Camhs aims to provide assessment and treatment for young people who are experiencing mental health difficulties.

Cork Kerry Community Healthcare revealed to The Echo that it has seen a recent significant increase in the number of new referrals to Camhs in the region.

Information obtained from the regional health service shows that 728 children were awaiting Camhs services in Cork at the end of September this year.

North Cork recorded the highest number of children awaiting Camhs services at this time, with 206 children on waiting lists.

This was followed by South Lee 3 (188 children); South Lee 1 (115 children); and Cork North Central (58 children).

The data also revealed that 19 children were on waiting lists for child and adolescent regional eating disorder services in Cork at the end of September this year.

A spokesperson for Cork Kerry Community Healthcare explained: “Camhs community services in Cork Kerry Community Healthcare are delivered across 10 community sector teams and also a Child and Adolescent Regional Eating Disorder Services (CAREDS) team. In addition, Cork Kerry Community Healthcare provides a Camhs Liaison Service at Cork University Hospital and the Mercy Hospital.

“There has been a recent significant increase in the number of new referrals to Camhs in Cork Kerry Community Healthcare,” the spokesperson revealed, adding: “The HSE is committed to improving access to all of its services.”

“Camhs teams in Cork Kerry Community Healthcare are taking a multifaceted approach to improving access to their services”,” the spokesperson stated further

“An ADHD waitlist initiative has been approved for funding, and once operational, it is anticipated that the ADHD team will remove 120 children from the waiting list over six months.

“As the numbers waiting to access Camhs in North Cork are particularly high, innovative telemedicine clinics are being developed for this area.

“Furthermore, additional consultant-led clinics are provided at weekends to support children and young people in North Cork to access assessment and supports.”