LLR ICB has commissioned DHU Healthcare to provide a new self-referral website to support the mental health of children and young people living in Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland.

The website is now live at https://www.myselfreferral-llr.nhs.uk and is aimed at children and young people under the age of 18, their parents or carers looking for mental health information, support and the ability to complete a self-referral.

About the service

DHU Healthcare’s Children and Young People’s Mental Health team, consisting of mental health clinicians and support staff, developed the website in collaboration with young people and NHS partners. ‘My Self-Referral’ is a new, simple and confidential way for young people to refer themselves for support for non-urgent or crisis cases without needing to see a GP or healthcare professional.

The website is user-friendly and accessible, with information, tips and signposting to resources that help children and young people manage and take care of their mental health. It begins by explaining more about mental health, with 16 buttons for common mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression. Each button provides the child or young person with further information about that condition, some tips for self-help and then an opportunity to self-refer and access details of specialist organizations.

Due to the complexity of some conditions and a requirement for supporting information, ‘My Self-Referral’ cannot accept self-referrals for neurodevelopmental conditions, eating disorders and substance misuse. Those referrals will continue to go through GPs. However, ‘My Self-Referral’ will accept requests for support for associated symptoms such as anxiety or depression.

DHU Healthcare and NHS providers recognize that mental health issues among young people are on the rise, particularly following the pandemic. This website will make it easier for young people to access the support they need, when they need it.