HUNDREDS of children in Greater Glasgow and Clyde in need of mental health treatment this year failed to receive support within the recommended timeframe...with one patient having to wait 43 weeks.

Figures obtained under a Freedom of Information request show an increasing number of young people referred to NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) waited longer than the 18-week guideline given by the Scottish Government.

Between April 2014 and March 2019, a total of 982 children were seen by the health board, which covers Renfrewshire, beyond the recommended time, with the number peaking this year at 757 patients.

READ MORE: Royal Alexandra Hospital criticised after tumour missed in man's CT scan

During the same period, the longest waiting time for children has increased year-on-year from 27 weeks in 2014/15 to a high of 43 weeks in 2018/19.

NHS bosses say they have received a record number of referrals to CAMHS services during the last year.

An NHSGGC spokesperson added: “While striving to meet this increasing demand, the service has also brought in new operational practices to ensure the majority of referrals for children and young people within NHSGGC are accepted.

“The increasing number of children being seen does also represent increased pressure on the service.

“In addition to work on referrals, NHSGGC CAMHS have an ongoing research and development programme aimed at assisting children, young people, and their families when it comes to engaging with CAMHS.”

READ MORE: Renfrew woman waited more than eight hours to see GP at Paisley Royal Alexandra Hospital

The Scottish Government said it is rolling out a £250million package of measures to support positive mental health for children.  

A spokesperson added: “No-one should be waiting this long for treatment and we’re aware of the impact these delays can have.”

Read all the latest from Renfrewshire and beyond