Most children and young people experiencing difficulties in Herefordshire initially come into contact with non-specialist services such as GPs, teachers, school nurses, health visitors, youth workers, the police and others. Most these children and their families will get support they need at that level without the need for more specialist help. This support may well extend over a long period and is not perceived as stigmatising by most children and their parents.

Additionally there are a number of Voluntary and Independent sector organisations and individuals offering support and advice to children needing help at this level. A smaller group of children and adolescents have serious and complex difficulties, and are referred on to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS).

An even smaller group with highly specific and complex problems need highly specialised resources that are mainly provided at regional or national centres. They include hospital admission, secure accommodation, specialist facilities for those with sensory disabilities, severe eating disorders, neuro psychiatric disorders or rare chronic life threatening paediatric disorders. Access to these services is always via CAMHS.