STUDENTS in Swindon will have faster access to mental health support after a new scheme was launched.

It will help to identify mental health issues quicker and give young people more support.

It came about after funding was put in place after students said they’d prioritise better and faster access to mental health services.

Wiltshire Council Cabinet member for children, Pauline Church said: “Now more than ever young people are under pressure, stress and social anxiety can cause real problems which affect their wellbeing and mental health”.

“We know there is some excellent support out there already. This Trailblazer programme will build on that and provide even more support, earlier and where young people tell us that they want to receive it – in schools. The programme will help young people to improve their emotional health and wellbeing and get back on track.”

1 in 9 young people are diagnosed with mental health conditions in 2017, the new scheme ‘Trailblazer’ should help improve mental health for children and young people.

Dr David Soodeen, Clinical Director for the South West Mental Health Clinical Network, said: “The process of growing up can lead to a number of issues which can impact upon the mental health of children and young people - exam stress, behavioural difficulties or friendship issues to name just a few. We believe that if intervention can take place early on, it may help stop worries becoming much bigger mental health issues.