Only 10% of primary school teachers strongly agree they have the necessary training to feel confident about what action to take when a child experiences a mental health problem.

The findings come in a YouGov online poll commissioned by the Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families (AFNCCF)

Liberal Democrat MP Tom Brake commented:

“This highlights a yawning gap in our ability to support children with mental health problems.

“We know there is a growing prevalence of mental health issues amongst children.

“It’s crucial we give teachers the training and tools do their jobs effectively in the face of these growing pressures.

“All teachers need to be trained to spot the signs of trauma, neglect or mental distress, to ensure that pupils get help early on.”