Mind welcomes radical reform of social care

Posted Tuesday 14 July 2009

As the Government sets out proposals today (Tuesday 14 July) to reform social care, leading mental health charity Mind welcomes the move to simplify the process and create a fairer system for the many thousands of people with mental health problems who currently pay for social care services. 

Mind’s Director of External Relations Sophie Corlett said:

“Health and social care are two sides of the same coin, yet the division between the two services and how they are paid for and accessed has long been a problem for people with experience of mental distress, whose needs can span both categories.

“Having a mental health problem isn't just a medical issue - it can affect every aspect of daily living, from holding down jobs and relationships, to domestic duties such as getting round to cooking and paying the bills. A lack of funding in the social care system has meant that people with enduring mental health needs have been missing out on simple but life changing services, including support in managing day to day tasks that will help them get back on their feet and live independent lives. People are being left isolated and unable to access the things in life that most people take for granted.

"The Government’s commitment to a National Care Service should help to address some of these problems by finally bringing social care in step with NHS services. We must ensure that any future Government’s sign up to this radical reform which will create a fairer playing field for people with experience of mental distress.”

***ENDS***

Notes to editors

• Mind is the leading mental health charity in England and Wales. We work to create a better life for everyone with experience of mental distress. www.mind.org.uk
• For more information, interviews and a range of case studies please contact Mind media office on T: 020 8522 1743 M: 07850 788514 E: media@mind.org.uk ISDN line available: 020 8221 0817.
• Please note that Mind is not an acronym and should be set in title case.

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