A NEW online hub aims to provide mental health support for young people in Wirral.

The site, called Branch, was named by the youngsters and seeks to assist families before a child reaches a crisis point.

It brings together public sector, not-for-profit, and other mental health organisations to tackle system challenges, reduce waiting times, and ensure young people receive the right support more easily.

Councillor Stephen Bennett, chairman of the children, families, and education committee for Wirral Council, said: "Every parent wants the best for their child but sometimes it’s hard to know where to turn for guidance.

"Mental wellbeing is such a challenging area for many families, and we must find better and faster ways to support our young people.

"Along with our partners I’m glad to launch Branch, a project which is very much leading the way nationally in terms of redesigning how mental wellbeing support, and access to it, operates."

Funded by Wirral Council and the NHS, Branch provides digital access to Wirral’s mental wellbeing services through a new online hub.

This offers information and a clear route to the right support for individuals up to 18, or up to 25 for young people with SEND.

The Branch team also promotes preventative support including strategies and techniques young people can do at home, local support groups and therapy-based projects.

They aim to match young people with the services that best meet their needs.

The website is open to all children, young people, families, carers, and professionals.