The evidence is clear: early, community-based support for young people improves mental health outcomes and offers better long-term value than crisis-driven care
The #FutureMinds roadmap, launched 28 January 2026 by Centre for Mental Health, Young Minds and the Children and Young People's Mental Health Coalition, calls for expanded open-access provision, strengthened youth services, social prescribing and integrated neighbourhood models – building a system that supports mental health earlier and more holistically.
We're delighted that our Good Work for Young People's Mental Health programme is featured in the report. This pilot is based in three cities offering young people tailored employment placements, alongside help with their mental health, by applying the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model in trusted community organisations.
As the report notes, 'early indications suggest this approach could create new, cost-effective pathways into work that support recovery from mental ill health. By restoring a sense of agency, predictability and future orientation, IPS can build confidence and enhance wellbeing – helping break the cycle between poor mental health and youth unemployment.'
We also welcome the report's recommendation that 'the Department of Health and Social Care and Department for Work and Pensions work together to jointly expand the scope of this pilot, building on learning from the evaluation. This could take place in each of DWP’s Youth Hubs, which include a commitment to provide mental health and wellbeing support, as well as through early support hubs (building on the pilot sites) and Young Futures hubs.'