The Government have announced an extra £150 million investment over the next three years to fund NHS mental health services to better support people in crisis outside of A&E and enhance patient safety in mental health units.
This funding was announced alongside the proposed reforms to the Mental Health Act, which is currently in draft stages before a parliamentary select committee.
Dr Adrian James, President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, said:
“We welcome this important funding announced today by the Government, which will be vital to implementing some of the necessary reforms of the Mental Health Act recommended by Professor Simon Wessely. This much-needed funding will be essential to modernise mental healthcare in England and Wales, expanding community mental health services and providing the facilities and care that patients need and deserve.
“However, any investment in mental health care must be underpinned by a robust workforce to provide patients with high quality care. Based on the White Paper published last year, we estimated that an extra 494 psychiatrists would be needed by 2033/34 to make this plan a reality.
“We look forward to reviewing the draft Bill in greater detail and continuing our work with the Government on the reform of the Mental Health Act. We are particularly keen to ensure the new legislation addresses the inequalities currently faced by people with a disability and those from minority ethnic backgrounds.”
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