Contemporary Issues in Health & Social Care
Assignment Brief
School of Health & Social Care
Module Title: Contemporary Issues in Health & Social Care
Module Code: SOCWOO69
Level: 5
Academic Year 2020/21 Term: Semester I
Type of assessment: an essay based around contemporary issues relevant to your service users
Description of assessment tasks:
Students should:
- To examine a topical issue relating to your service users in the care sector
- Evaluate the extent to which these issues impact on the service user and care available
- Examine current and proposed legislation and practice
Sample Answer
Mental Health Challenges in Young Adults: A Contemporary Issue in Health and Social Care
Mental health has become an increasingly prominent issue within the UK’s health and social care sector, especially among young adults aged 18–25. This demographic has experienced a significant rise in anxiety, depression, self-harm, and other psychological disorders over the past decade. These challenges not only affect the well-being and life chances of young people but also place increasing strain on health and social care services. This essay examines the scope of this issue, analyses its impact on service users and care provision, and evaluates the role of legislation and policy in addressing the problem.
Contemporary Scope of Mental Health Issues in Young Adults
Recent studies and health data indicate that young adults in the UK are disproportionately affected by mental health disorders. According to the NHS Digital report (2022), one in four young adults reported experiencing mental health difficulties, with a notable increase since the COVID-19 pandemic. Factors contributing to this include academic and career pressures, social media influence, economic instability, and the residual effects of social isolation during lockdowns.
The stigma surrounding mental health has diminished to some extent, encouraging more young people to seek help. However, the surge in demand has outpaced the capacity of mental health services, resulting in long waiting times, under-resourced staff, and unmet needs. Consequently, many young people experience delays in receiving diagnosis and treatment, which can exacerbate their condition and lead to long-term consequences.
Impact on Service Users and Health and Social Care Provision
The effects of mental health challenges on young adults are profound and multifaceted. On an individual level, these issues can interfere with education, employment, social relationships, and personal development. Untreated mental health problems can lead to substance misuse, involvement in the criminal justice system, or in severe cases, suicide.
From a care perspective, mental health services have struggled to cope with increased demand. Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) often discharge service users at age 18, leaving a care gap before they are transferred to adult services. This transition period can be critical, as young adults may disengage from care, leading to deterioration in their mental health. Additionally, social care providers frequently lack the training or resources to adequately support young people with complex mental health needs, especially those transitioning out of foster care or secure accommodation.
The strain on services is compounded by workforce shortages, insufficient funding, and regional disparities in service availability. In response, there has been a push for greater integration between health, social care, education, and voluntary sector services to provide more holistic support. However, coordination remains inconsistent, and many young people still fall through the gaps in care.
Legislative and Policy Context
Several pieces of legislation and policy initiatives are relevant to the management of mental health in young adults. The Mental Health Act 1983 (amended 2007) provides the legal framework for detaining and treating individuals with severe mental disorders. However, this Act has been criticised for its emphasis on risk management rather than patient-centred care, particularly among ethnic minority groups, who are disproportionately affected.
The Children and Families Act 2014 introduced the concept of the Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan, which supports young people with special educational needs and disabilities, including mental health needs, up to age 25. While EHC plans offer some continuity of care, not all young adults meet the eligibility criteria, and access remains uneven.
In recent years, the UK Government has recognised the need for reform. The NHS Long Term Plan (2019) committed to expanding mental health services for young people, including earlier intervention and community-based support. More recently, the proposed Mental Health Act Reform (2021 White Paper) seeks to modernise the existing framework by promoting choice, reducing inequalities, and improving transitions between services.
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