child’s increasing capacity to make their own choices. It states that every child has the right to express their views, and to have them considered and taken seriously. This should apply at all times and in all situations, from day-to-day home life through to court proceedings (124). Youth MHFAiders should be prepared to provide a young person with a range of signposting options, for the young person to take away and consider for themselves. However, a young person’s ability to make informed decisions about their health will be dependent on their age and cognitive development. Action 4: Encourage the young person to get appropriate professional help cont. In a community or family setting When supporting a pre-adolescent in a community or family setting, if you are not the parent/carer then you may need to approach a parent/carer with the pre-adolescent’s concerns. This will depend on the level of maturity and understanding you Supporting pre-adolescents to get professional help Pre-adolescents may lack the motivation or agency to make significant changes in their lives by themselves, and this includes accessing professional help. The MHFAider role is a first response role, and Youth MHFAiders should avoid holding the supportive relationship whilst the pre-adolescent waits for professional or other help. If you are not the pre-adolescent’s parent/carer, you should ensure that the pre-adolescent is under the support of their parent(s)/carer(s), or the appropriate contact in their school setting. Discuss with the young person how to share the information with the adult first.
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