A number of examples of positive practice, as well as challenges, were raised in relation to governance.

In Barnet, three education setting representatives (primary, secondary school and college) are on the local project steering board as well as North Central London project board. There is also parent/carer representatives on the local project steering board.

In Camden and Hounslow, the development of stronger links with CAMHS was reported, to support the work of the MHSTs and also provide a referral route into specific services.

Camden does not have parent or service user representation on their governance structures, which is something they are looking to address. In Ealing parent/carers have been consistently involved through the MHST Operational and Oversight Groups. Other Community Partners (voluntary organisations working with parents/carers and young people) have been involved along with the Local Authority CYP YES Group and West London NHS Trust CAMHS User Group.

Haringey has a new partner on their governance structure; a local charity that provides counselling services for schools. Hounslow are reviewing their terms of reference to include the voluntary sector. In SWL governance arrangements have been strengthened by ensuring that each borough has a GP lead for Mental Health who will attend cluster meetings and the Steering Group meetings to support the integration of CAMHS and the Whole School Approach. A Director of Children’s Services also now sits on SWL’s Steering Group.

Bromley has a parent representative on the Board of Trustees who is involved both through the Board and directly in ensuring that there is a parent voice in the service.

Challenges relating to patient/carer representation were reported in some pockets of Hounslow.