Calls made to train teachers to offer mental health support

Those who pursue a teaching career should also be taught how to deal with pupils who show signs of mental health problems, it has been suggested.

Charity YoungMinds believes that this will serve to broaden the support network available to pupils in need.

All professionals working with children should be equipped with this knowledge, it adds.

According to research conducted by the organisation, eight out of ten seven to 13-year-olds would rather talk to their teacher than a health professional if they had a problem.

Deputy chief executive of YoungMinds Julia Mason stated: "We are not calling for everyone to become a therapist but to simply understand the role they can play in spotting mental health problems at an early stage."

Children's charity Barnardo's made similar suggestions earlier this month, arguing that GPs, parenting groups and youth centres should provide support to children who may have mental health issues.