The Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) programme provides cognitive behaviour therapy and other evidence-based therapies for those with mental health needs. This article looks at the progress so far, the increase in the number of referrals made and the role of low-intensity therapists in the services. A short case study is also included.
In the Borders there are an estimated 1,306 children and young people affected by substance misuse within the family. The Borders Drug & Alcohol Action Team (DAAT) has, over recent years, become increasingly aware of concerns around the impact of parental drug and alcohol misuse on children and young people. Assessing this problem has been a very complex process, and due to the varying levels of awareness and activity between agencies, has been impossible to determine exact numbers of children and families affected in this way.