Exploring the use of single session interventions in child and adolescent mental health services in England: a freedom of information-based study

Objective: We explored the provision of single-session interventions (SSIs) in public child and adolescent mental health service (CAMHS) provision, using freedom of information (FOI) requests to gather data from National Health Service (NHS) trusts. Method: FOI requests were sent to all NHS trusts in England with CAMHS in 2024, seeking information on SSI use, delivery, and implementation. Results: Responses from participating trusts indicated that most trusts did not use SSIs, with varied deployment of SSIs in those that provided them. Some trusts reported plans to expand SSI provision. Conclusion: Although SSIs are used in some CAMHS, variability in practice and reporting suggests a need for further research into decision-making and strategies for the implementation of SSIs in different localities.