Supporting treatment and appropriate medication in paediatrics (STAMP):A Brent Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service audit for the LD pathway

Abstract

• STAMP stands for ‘Supporting Treatment and Appropriate Medication in Paediatrics.’ STAMP aims to make sure (1) psychological intervention is considered before medication; (2) medication is given only when needed and reviewed regularly; (3) medication is given for the right reason in children and young people.• The Learning Disability pathway within the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) in Brent (North-West London) conducted an audit to see how the team were performing to meet STAMP’s aims.• For children and young people taking medication, the results showed that there was not a big difference (a ‘statistical difference’) between (1) those receiving psychological intervention and those who do not; (2) those receiving medication reviews and those who do not; and (3) those who had their medication justified and those who do not. This means that the service is currently not meeting STAMP’s aims in the best way it can.• The service has suggested some ways to help them achieve STAMP’s aims and plans to re-audit in 18 months.