Still no plan for mental health – Mind responds to the Budget
Speaking in response to the Budget, Dr Sarah Hughes, Chief Executive of Mind, said:
“The measures announced today to reduce poverty and invest in neighbourhood health have the potential to make real improvements to many people’s lives. But the lack of any mention of mental health means we still do not have a clear and comprehensive plan to tackle the mental health crisis facing the country.
“Scrapping the two-child limit on benefits will lift hundreds of thousands of children out of poverty, improving their life chances and reducing the risk of them experiencing mental health problems. Poverty is one of the key drivers of poor mental health and the two-child limit has been the key driver of rising child poverty. Tackling the underlying causes of poor mental health is the right thing to do morally and economically.
“The additional investment in Neighbourhood Health Centres is welcome – these offer the potential to provide more holistic and preventative care However, recent changes in funding standards means mental health services are at risk of getting a smaller share of NHS funding. Without strong protections, mental health risks falling further behind other areas of healthcare.
“The government must act now to deliver a clear, funded plan for mental health – one that makes sure people get the right help when they need it. The first priority should be a bold commitment to our young people – giving them the support they need to thrive, including through mental health early support hubs in every local authority.”
