Can a GP prescribe antidepressants for under 18’s

[ilovebagpuss]

My DD 14 is struggling with OCD which she has intrusive thoughts with. It has been ongoing for many years and we have always hoped it would become more manageable. However this is not the case and we have been back to the GP regarding having some medication which I feel she desperately needs.
The GP said they cannot prescribe without the CAMHS advise and we all know that will take months.
Is his true or is it just flannel?
I would have thought a GP could prescribe anything? Otherwise what’s the point ? I understand they are not specialists but I’m not sure who to believe.
Will I have to pay for a private Psychiatrist to get anything prescribed and/or support outside of a crisis situation?
Any information gratefully received

Yes our Psychiatrist wrote to the GP and requested a joint care agreement and advised of all the findings and his opinion etc. I get the repeat prescription free now for the fluoxetine but I have to pay for the Lamotrigine as it was prescribed off label. It’s only £6 quid though or something so that’s fine.
I did wait a couple of months before the GP agreement was in place for the fluoxetine.

My DD2 has ADD and depression - at least we haven’t had an official diagnosis as the wait for assessment and CAMHS is so long. Do you think the ADHD medication helped your DS’s mood? Thanks