NHS England launches Care Together pilot to improve mental health support for children in social care

NHS England has launched the application process for its new Care Together pilot, aimed at improving mental health care for children who are involved with children’s social care.

Integrated care boards (ICBs) are being invited to apply to become pilot areas, working in partnership with two to three local authorities as part of the programme.

The initiative will focus on improving integration between children and young people’s mental health services and children’s social care, bringing health and local authority partners together to improve the support available to children who need both services.

Applications for the pilot opened in July, with NHS England making supporting information available to organisations considering taking part.

Resources include a webinar recording, frequently asked questions and information to support ICBs and their local authority partners in preparing expressions of interest.

The programme comes as the NHS continues to encourage closer integration between health and social care services. NHS England’s wider approach to integrated care emphasises collaboration between ICBs, local authorities, health providers and other partners to improve the coordination of care.

ICBs interested in becoming a Care Together pilot area must submit their applications by 1 September 2026.

Further information and application resources are available through the NHS Futures Children and Young People’s Mental Health workspace.

Stay informed with the stories shaping health and social care.

Register with The Daily Round for the latest sector news, inspections & reports, wellbeing content, workforce insights, expert features and practical updates—delivered free to your inbox.