Introduction

This resource aims to help those working with children and young people to:

• develop the skills needed to identify mental health needs
• recognise areas of strength and resilience in young people and parents
• provide support through direct work with families.

The approach adopted is informed by the theory and practice of mentalisation, along with other types of effective help such as social support, problem-solving and guided self-help.

The resource enables practitioners to create a wellbeing passport. This is a working document that should be shared with the child or young person, relevant family members and carers, and also professionals working with the child or young person. A wellbeing passport identifies areas of strength or wellbeing alongside recognising a child or young person’s problems and difficulties, with suggested ways forward in addressing those difficulties.