Some implications of the children's national service framework for social work practice with regard to child mental health

This paper discusses the implications of the recommendations of the Children's National Service Framework for children and young people with mental health problems, and considers the interface with social work practice. Children's mental health has never previously attracted so much attention from government departments. This is seen as a reflection of the recent recognition of the widespread nature of mental health problems in the community and an understanding of the cost to society if they are left unaddressed.