Yorkshire Children's Trust says lockdown saw 'anxiety and depression increase' in young people

Yorkshire Children’s’ Trust (YCT), based in Halifax, helps support vulnerable young people and remained open during lockdown and amended the way it worked to ensure children in Yorkshire could remain safe.

Instead of providing face-to-face therapy through counselling and directly in schools, the Trust have provided continued support over telephone calls, Skype and Zoom calls and mental health worksheets.

Spokeswoman for YCT, Sarah Thompson said: “We’re seeing clients back in the counselling suite by taking a proactive approach to safety by undertaking a Covid-19 risk assessment, wearing PPE and using social distancing measures.

“We have seen an increase in anxiety levels and parents have reported their children having feelings of depression and isolation as they have been separated from their friends, family members and teachers.

“Despite staying open to provide our services we have seen a substantial loss of income as we have had to cancel all charity fundraisers."

The coronavirus lockdown may have been impacting children's mental health in many different ways.

The YCT said as a result of children staying at home for long periods, children may be facing anxiety, loss of loved ones, loss of friendships, and teachers during the lockdown, separation and attachment anxiety, behavioural issues or increased conflict at home and isolation which increases the risk of abuse and cyber-bullying.

Ms Thompson said: "Even with the extensive press coverage of the virus and extensive online information available, children at the younger end, or those who have a mental impairment, may not fully understand the outcomes of the virus and the risk associated with their health by not following the guidance laid out by the NHS and Government.

“As part of our ongoing mental health support sessions we’re working to focus on the positive outcome of the virus such as spending more time with family, learning new skills - as an aid to reduce the anxiety the virus has caused.”