Place2Be uses evidence and experience to shape policy across the UK.

Our policy recommendations are based on what we learn through our work in schools. We then use these to improve children and young people’s mental health across England, Wales and Scotland.

We also seek opportunities to work with policymakers who can help deliver our mission to ensure that no child or young person faces mental health problems alone.

We influence policy by sharing our evidence and recommendations with political inquiries and consultations.

We have convened two roundtables of experts to tackle key education priorities.

• In May 2023 we looked at school exclusions.
• In July 2024 we shared solutions for reducing persistent absence.

In addition to providing evidence to consultations, we work directly with politicians to show them the impact of our work in schools providing mental health support.

Visits to our partner schools

In 2024, the former Apprenticeships Minister Robert Halfon was welcomed to Stewards Academy in Harlow. Here he learned first-hand the impact of Place2Be's embedded mental health services.

Speaking in Parliament

We send Members of the Houses of Parliament briefings with key information for them to include in debates. This can help to hold the Government to account in supporting children and young people’s wellbeing.

For example, we worked with several members of the House of Lords, across different political parties on a debate on pupil mental health and wellbeing.

Children's Mental Health Week

As part of Children’s Mental Health Week 2025, Place2Be worked with politicians, organisations and young people to boost children’s health and wellbeing.

• Nearly 50 MPs and Peers came to our event in the Houses of Parliament, to hear about our policy work and recommendations to help children thrive at school
• The Prime Minister, Mental Health Minister, Skills Minister and Leader of the House all spoke about the importance of Children’s Mental Health Week in Parliamentary debates.
• Pupils from Heathmere Primary School wrote messages of support to MPs, and received their own words of wisdom in return.
• Young people from Oasis Academy Southbank delivered speeches about their experience of mental health support at school.
• 59,000 children and young people across the country debated the question “Does learning about your emotions help you to feel better?” in collaboration with Place2Be and Votes for Schools.
• Dr Simon Opher MP wrote a guest blog setting out the importance of Place2Be’s work in being proactive to support mental health.
• The Government, Children’s Commissioner, MPs, charities and the NHS showed their support on social media, sharing the #ChildrensMentalHealthWeek hashtag.