Mind responds to General Election announcement

The nation’s mental health has been left on pause for far too long, putting lives at risk.

As the UK General Election is confirmed for 12 December, Mind is calling for commitments that will make a real difference for those of with mental health problems.

Responding to the election announcement, Vicki Nash, Head of Policy and Campaigns says:

“Despite each major political party pledging to take action on mental health in the last two General Elections, people’s lives continue to be put at risk by overstretched services, outdated legislation and employment issues.

“This has left too many urgent issues paused, while those of us with mental health problems continue to struggle. We continue to wait for a proper response to last year’s Mental Health Act review. People who are too unwell to work are still being failed by a system that doesn’t understand people with mental health problems, while those at work are not receiving adequate rights and protections. All of this is against the backdrop of crumbling NHS mental health buildings, a broken workforce, and services that continue to struggle after decades of underfunding.

“There is no room for mere lip service when the need for real change is this great. The next UK Government must make sure that the nation’s mental health isn’t left on pause any longer – it is time to press play and improve the lives of anyone experiencing a mental health problem.”