Two thirds of children in Wokingham now have access to mental health services.

Wokingham Borough Council has increased its health services across schools in the area, now reaching two thirds of children.

The majority of children needing support for their mental health are suffering with anxiety, according to the council.

The authority’s Mental Health Support Team can support children with mild to moderate emotional health problems, as well as with their parent or carer.

The team will also work with staff members and teachers to create a ‘whole school’ approach to good mental health and wellbeing.

Children can be supported in a range of ways, including cognitive therapy-based interventions, or having space to speak about issues like sleep hygiene or problem solving.

Other avenues for support include the ‘Tellmi’ app, which can be used by people aged 11 to 18 across the borough.

The app is safe and anonymous, giving young people the chance to talk anonymously to peers and mental health professionals.

Young people can refer themselves, or they can be referred by parents, carers or professionals.

Nearly 1,500 young people across the west of Berkshire have sought support through the app since it launched last year.

Councillor Prue Bray, executive member for children’s services, said: “The majority of referrals locally are for anxiety, which echoes the national picture.

“Supporting children and young people early can help stop issues from escalating and provide tools and mechanisms to support them now and in the future to live safe, happy and healthy lives.”