Who are we?

The service consists of a Senior Paediatric Nurse who is the specialist lead for children and young people under the age of 18 years, presenting to hospital due to their mental health, any substance misuse related accidents or illnesses or disclosure of substance use.

The role works across Paediatrics, Emergency Department and Adult Wards to ensure there is seamless, coordinated care for vulnerable children and young people experiencing mental health and substance misuse difficulties. The role supports multi-disciplinary teams to deliver safe, high quality, evidence-based care, promoting collaborative working to achieve the best possible outcomes for young people and their families.

A key aspect of the role is supporting the development of knowledge, skills and confidence across the Trust, increasing the awareness of mental health and substance misuse issues and ensuring staff are equipped to respond appropriately to the need. The Nurse provides advice and support to colleagues, contributes to service development and the continuous improvement of care pathways.

The Nurse facilitates effective communication between services and agencies, supporting integrated working and ensuring children, young people and families can access the right support at the right time. The role contributes to safe discharge planning and transition processes, helping to ensure continuity of care and smooth transfers between services. Through partnership working, education and advocacy, the role promotes improved understanding of mental health and substance misuse support which ensures positive outcomes for children and young people.

The Team 

Children and Young People’s Mental Health and Substance Misuse Specialist Nurse

NHS 111 option if someone is experiencing a mental health crisis, you can now call 111 and select the mental health option (option 2). This is available 24/7 and you will speak to a mental health advisor who will listen and help you find the right support. This is for all ages including children and young people

Contact Details:

Sarah Burnham, Children and Young People’s Mental Health and Substance Misuse Specialist Nurse  

Telephone: 0161 922 4128 / 07584336934 

Email: sarah.burnham@tgh.nhs.uk