South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth has demanded action on waits for CAMHS services across NHS Ayrshire and Arran.

The Scottish Government’s standard is of 90 per cent of young people to commence treatment for specialist Child and Adolescent Mental Health services within 18 weeks of referral.

According to figures released last week, NHS Ayrshire and Arran saw 73 per cent treated within 18 weeks, a fall from 94 per cent for the same period in 2021.

Colin Smyth said: “The drop in numbers in the NHS Ayrshire and Arran area, from a very 94 per cent to 73 per cent, is deeply worrying.

“While the amazing NHS staff in our area is doing all it can, we need action from the Scottish Government.

“We cannot have the young people of Ayrshire and Arran being failed and put in danger due to the inaction of the SNP.

“We are risking a lost generation of young people experiencing mental health issues. Our region deserves so much better.

“On behalf of the young people of the area, I call on the Health Secretary to take immediate action to ensure everyone gets the treatment that they need swiftly.”