WEST – Wellbeing & Emotional Support Teams 

WEST is a service run by Herefordshire & Worcestershire CAMHS that provides early help for children and young people aged 5–18 who are experiencing mental health or emotional wellbeing difficulties. The team works directly in schools to offer support before issues become more serious. 

What WEST Offers 

• Early intervention in school settings, so support is available quickly and in familiar environments 

• Short-term, evidence-based support delivered by Education Mental Health Practitioners (EMHPs) and senior practitioners 

• Use of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and other approaches to help with:  

• Low mood, sadness, or depression 

• Anxiety, worry, or stress 

• Behavioural difficulties affecting school or home life 

Support may be: 

• One-to-one, in small groups, or virtual/hybrid, depending on what works best 

• Delivered through workshops, assemblies, or training sessions for pupils, staff, and sometimes parents/carers 

Who Can Use WEST 

• Pupils aged 5–18 in schools where WEST is available 

• Referrals are usually made by school/college staff, often via the school’s Family Support Team

• Parents/carers can ask the school/college or Family Support Team if their child might benefit 

What WEST Doesn’t Do 

WEST is not a crisis service. 
If a child or young person is in urgent danger, thinking of harming themselves, or there is an emergency, WEST is not the right service, more specialist CAMHS or emergency services will be involved. 

How We Work with WEST in Our School 

• We have a Mental Health Lead who liaises with the WEST team 

• Staff or parents/carers can request a referral if they feel a pupil may benefit 

• WEST may visit school to run sessions, carry out assessments, or help staff create support plans 

• Information from pupils and families helps tailor support to fit with school/college life and individual needs 

https://camhs.hacw.nhs.uk/west/