The further education (FE) sector is facing a mounting mental health crisis among students, with MPs calling on the government to expand support services in colleges across England.
In a new report published today (23rd September), the cross-party Education Committee warned half of FE colleges still lack access to mental health support teams (MHSTs), despite growing numbers of students battling with conditions such as anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Within the research MPs criticised the ‘glacial’ pace of rollout since MHSTs were first introduced in 2018 and urged ministers to prioritise post-16 settings ahead of the 2029-30 deadline for universal coverage.
Committee chair Helen Hayes, said FE had been ‘starved of funding’ and ‘left to run on fumes’, with colleges struggling to meet the complex needs of students.
’15 years of real term cuts and stagnant pay have left colleges struggling to recruit and retain teachers who earn far less than their peers in schools. Far from receiving the parity of esteem it’s been promised in the past, FE continues to be treated like the Cinderella of the education system,’ Hayes continued.
Against this backdrop, the committee’s inquiry heard evidence from leaders and practitioners who reported increases in self-harm, suicidal ideation and long-term mental health conditions among 16 to 19-year-olds, many of whom face additional challenges including poverty, caring responsibilities or special educational needs.
As such, Hayes is calling for more action. She said: ‘We call for investment in the sector and the establishment of a statutory pay review body to make recommendations on staff salary increases. New funding should also take into account the prevalence of special educational needs and disabilities, as well as local levels of deprivation.’
The findings, which can be accessed here, come amid wider concerns over the long-term neglect of the FE sector, which the committee argues is vital to the government’s economic growth agenda. But without urgent investment in student wellbeing, MPs warn that many young people risk being ‘left behind’ just as they transition into adulthood.
‘Education is about more than just qualifications,’ said Hayes. ‘It’s about giving every young person the support they need to thrive.’
Photo by Redd Francisco via UnSplash
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