40% of young people with learning difficulties and disabilities in the UK experience mental health problems compared to 10% in the wider population (DfE, Mencap and Public Health England). This means learners with SEND are four times more likely to have mental health difficulties. Research indicates that around 70% of individuals with autism have at least one co-occurring mental health condition, such as anxiety or depression (Lai et al 2019, Mannion & Leader 2013).
Social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) problems can be dismissed as an inevitable consequence of wider learning difficulties and disabilities. Members of Natspec’s Student Voice Parliament have told us they have had this experience. For example, anxiety may be presumed to be ‘an untreatable symptom of autism’ and so no specific interventions are sought. This means that learners’ SEMH needs can go unrecognised and unmet. Cuts in services, inconsistent provision, a lack of specialist training and poorly managed transitions all compound the challenges facing learners and their families. Unmet SEMH needs result in poor attendance, engagement, challenging behaviour and low attainment (ONS 2022).
Many specialist colleges have specific expertise in meeting the SEMH needs of learners and staff employing a breadth of therapeutic and clinical staff.
Some learners and staff will require clinical interventions not usually provided in FE settings, but there are many more for whom active planning for positive mental health by colleges will be hugely beneficial. Many colleges have developed their understanding of specific practices, such as trauma-informed practice, and are implementing whole-college approaches to mental health and wellbeing for learners and staff.
Supporting SEMH needs of learners with learning difficulties and disabilities
As part of the Education and Training Foundation Mental Health and Well-being programme, Natspec member colleges have shared their knowledge and experience of supporting learners’ mental health needs in Guidance on mental health support for learners with SEMH needs.
Natspec Award for Innovative Approach to Mental Health and Wellbeing
Natspec Innovation Awards include a category dedicated to mental health and wellbeing. Natspec member colleges are invited to enter an innovative aspect of practice, project or initiative relating to mental health and wellbeing where they have evidence that it has had a positive effect on learners.
Natspec SEMH network
Natspec members and affiliates can join a network of staff with an interest in provision for learners with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs.