Responding to the Prime Minister’s speech to the Labour Party Conference, Matt Wrack, NASUWT General Secretary, said:

“Andy Burnham has delivered a powerful speech that will resonate with teachers and families who have seen the failings in our political system.

“We welcome his acknowledgement of the attacks on youth services and the hollowing out of public provision through privatisation which has led to shameful inequality in our country.

“The Prime Minister is right to highlight the need to invest in children’s services and improve access to mental health support. Teachers know that without proper investment and early intervention too many young people are often left without the help they need.

“Teachers will welcome these commitments but they need to be backed up with action.

“The test now for the Labour Government, the test upon which they will be judged by the British public, is how quickly they deliver real and meaningful change.”