Mind responds to announcement of additional winter support for NHS
Today the NHS has announced additional funding for the winter, including £10 million earmarked for supporting mental health services.
Responding to the announcement, Paul Farmer, Chief Executive of Mind, said:
“At this point nobody is in any doubt there is an incredibly difficult winter on the horizon for health services, particularly for mental health. On top of usual seasonal pressures the colder months bring, A&Es are already regularly showing signs of intense strain, with mental health bed occupancy consistently at 95%, which is 10% above safe levels. We are also seeing a cost of living crisis hurting household finances, which will only increase the need for mental health support, particularly as difficulties intensify over the winter. In light of the challenging winter we will likely all face, we welcome the announcement today of additional support for the NHS, in particular the extra £10 million earmarked for mental health services.
“However, the UK Government cannot be complacent. £10 million is not nearly enough to address the fundamental issues our mental health services face – years of underfunding, a crumbling estate and widespread staffing issues. We need to see long term, systematic reform – not yearly sticking plasters – to address the underlying issues our mental health services face.”
