NHS opens Talking Therapies to 16–17-year-olds in Ealing

Young people in Ealing will now find it easier to access mental health support in the borough, thanks to a new initiative linking Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) with NHS Talking Therapies – a service previously available only to adults.

GPs and CAMHS practitioners across Ealing, Hammersmith & Fulham, and Hounslow can now directly refer 16 and 17-year-olds to Talking Therapies, giving teenagers quicker access to evidence-based psychological support.

Talking Therapies, launched in 2008 as Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT), helps people manage common mental health difficulties such as anxiety and depression. Until recently, it was only open to those aged 18 and over, leaving many older teenagers reliant solely on CAMHS for help.

The West London NHS Trust has been gradually lowering the age threshold throughout 2025, with Ealing among the most recent areas to implement the change. More than 200 GP referrals have already been made since the rollout began, highlighting strong demand and early impact.

The move aims to address what experts call a “cliff edge” between child and adult mental health services, ensuring a smoother transition at a critical stage in young people’s lives.

Curtis Adjei, youth mmbassador for West London CAMHS, said: “I think that the expansion of NHS Talking Therapies for 16–17-year-olds in West London is fantastic and a great initiative. This will allow more young people to get the support and care they need within their own local communities.”

Dr Ruth Dennis, professional lead for NHS Talking Therapies at West London NHS Trust, said: “GPs can now directly refer 16–17-year-olds to our service. We’re proud to make care more accessible and age-appropriate.”

Keyur Joshi, associate director for CAMHS at West London NHS Trust, said: “This change has been possible thanks to strong collaboration between CAMHS and Talking Therapies and a shared commitment to improving access for young people.”