Mind reveals postcode lottery of access to talking therapies

Posted Wednesday 20 December 2006

Phone interviews with GPs and practice managers conducted last week by Mind have revealed the postcode lottery of access to talking therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy or counselling, on the NHS.

These crucial therapies are recommended by the Government's own advisers, NICE, for many different mental health problems, and are for many the most important step on their road to recovery. Yet patients around the country are waiting months or even years for a first appointment.

Mind's chief executive, Paul Farmer, said:

"Talking to GPs across the country has further confirmed what mental health charities have been highlighting in our We Need To Talk report. Talking therapies must be a fundamental part of health services for everyone, whether they live in Blackpool, Brighton, or Birmingham. Mental healthcare can't be treated as an optional extra."

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