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The NHS is set to fail a key target to deliver a comprehensive child and adolescent mental health service.

In a leaked letter to strategic health authorities, Department of Health official Richard Gleave said recent data showed performance on the three indicators making up the target was "variable" and the NHS was "not on track" to meet it by December.

According to the letter, only 162 of the 302 primary care trusts in England could provide a Camhs service for children with learning difficulties in the fourth quarter of 2005-6. Just 224 could provide appropriate services for 16- and 17-year-olds.

Charity Young Minds said the failure to meet the target would leave many children and their families without essential support services.