SDLP Foyle MLA Mark H Durkan
The provision launched in 2021/22 was abruptly ended in March 2023 amid budgetary pressures.
Mr Durkan has written to the Education Minister Paul Givan on several occasions calling for the programme’s return but the Minister is yet to assess the findings of an evaluation of the scheme which was published last month.
Said the Foyle MLA: “Children were stripped of this vital crutch overnight, some not even finishing their talking therapy sessions.
“The loss of which has been devastating for children, families and the school community.
“Parties from across the political spectrum all sang from the same hymn sheet on this issue, committing to making the Healthy Happy Minds project a day one priority for the Executive.
“United in recognising the value of this service and criticising the decisions of unelected department officials to cut funds amid a challenging budget outlook.
“Yet with the restoration of our institutions, Executive parties have failed to put their money where their mouth is- an approach which I should add, isn’t exclusive to the Healthy Happy Minds Programme.
“I’ve received a dichotomy in responses from DUP Education Minister, Paul Givan; on the one hand he recognises the immense value of this project but on the other seems in no hurry to commit to its return.”
Mr Durkan added: “It’s not good enough – this is arguably one of the biggest problems of our time; poor mental health among children.
“These last few years have been difficult for their young minds to process. Chronic absenteeism is on the rise.
“I know from speaking to parents and health professionals alike, that many of these attendance issues are due to increased rates of anxiety and declining mental health.
“When I questioned Minister Givan on this situation he advised that the Department doesn’t hold information on pupils who are absent for mental health reasons.
“This suggests to me that they aren’t adequately assessing or addressing the profound need for counselling and talking therapy provision within our schools.
“The removal of this initiative is the removal of a lifeline to help children thrive both emotionally and academically.
“Teachers and support staff are at breaking point- there’s only so much they can do, so much one on one time they can give to each child in classes of 30 pupils and counting.
“The solution was on the table, one that was making a tangible difference in the lives of children.
“Everyone saw the value of the Healthy Happy Minds project; the children, their families and their schools.
“It’s time to deliver on promises and get help to children when they need it most.”
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