Barriers and facilitators in the implementation of youth and young adult models of mental health care

Aim: It is increasingly recognised that traditional models of mental health (MH) care, with a service transition at age 18 years, may not reflect best practice. The literature supports a move towards youth and young adult focused models of MH care, for young people up to the age of 25, which specifically cater to the unique psychosocial and developmental needs of this population. This service evaluation aimed to explore the facilitators and barriers to the implementation of youth models of MH care across England (UK). Methods: Six services participated in separate focus groups pertaining to their experience of implementing youth models of MH care. The interview guide for the focus groups was informed by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) and explored barriers and facilitators to implementation and sustainment. The focus groups were recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically. Results: Seven key themes relevant to the implementation of youth models of MH care were identified: a clear rationale for doing things differently, for young people by young people, “building those relationships is key”, service identity development, resource and infrastructure, leadership at multiple levels, and valuing and developing staff. Conclusions: The findings suggest effective communication and leadership, co-production and cross system collaboration contribute to successful implementation of youth models of MH care. The findings will be of interest to those involved in informing and supporting successful implementation and delivery of youth models of mental health care at local and national levels.