Consultation launched to develop new standards for CAMHS

Ireland's Mental Health Commission (MHC) has initiated a six-week public consultation aimed at developing new standards for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). This initiative is part of the implementation of the Mental Health Act 2026, which establishes a legal framework designed to guarantee that CAMHS upholds the dignity, autonomy, and human rights of children receiving care.

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The MHC is seeking "support" to identify key areas for further development and refinement in the service.

Under the new legislation, community-based CAMHS will be directly regulated by the Mental Health Commission. The MHC is actively seeking input to identify key areas requiring further development and refinement within these services. The commission specifically requests feedback from children and young people, their parents, families, and carers, as well as from professionals working directly within CAMHS.

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Responses will inform the finalisation of the standards as well as the development of associated Codes of Practice under the Mental Health Act.

The feedback gathered during this consultation period will be instrumental in finalizing the national standards. These standards are intended to promote greater safety, enhance the quality of care, and ensure consistency across both inpatient and community-based CAMHS. Associated Codes of Practice under the Mental Health Act will also be developed based on the consultation responses. Details regarding the consultation process and how to participate are available on the MHC website.

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The MHC has said the national standards will support greater safety, quality and consistency in in inpatient and community CAMHS services.