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Government to look again at changes to after care services
Posted Friday 9 December 2011
Mind has persuaded the Government to look again at changes to after care services.
After care services are provided to people who have been detained under the Mental Health Act but are now living in the community. These vital services are threatened by measures in the Government’s Health and Social Care Bill – but Peers debated the issue on Monday and the Government has agreed to revisit the issue.
Mind argued that, as a result of the Government’s proposals, the NHS and local authorities will no longer need to work together to provide after care. We believe this will lead to patients missing out on services such as counselling or help with accommodation.
At the end of the debate Baroness Northover, speaking for the Government, said the Bill was not intended to compromise after care services and that this part of the Bill would be reconsidered to make sure this did not occur.
Mind has been working to ensure that the Bill, currently being debated in Parliament, best represents the needs of people with mental health problems.
As the Bill progresses over the coming months, Mind will continue to support MPs and Lords in understanding the key issues surrounding mental health to ensure the best possible outcomes for people who are living with mental health problems.