The Royal College of Nursing has released a news story showing a five-fold increase in waits for mental health patients in A&E and called for more investment and staffing.
Dr Lade Smith CBE, President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, commented on the news:
"The RCPsych strongly supports the Royal College of Nursing’s call for urgent investment in mental health nursing, particularly in light of the alarming rise in patients waiting over 12 hours in emergency settings. These extended waits are not only distressing but also pose significant risks to patient safety and dignity. People experiencing a mental health crisis are some of the most vulnerable individuals in our healthcare system. Yet, far too often, they are left waiting in distress for hours in Emergency Departments to access specialist mental health care. These long delays can exacerbate their suffering and, in some cases, lead to serious harm.
“In addition to bolstering the mental health nursing workforce, we urge evidence-driven, clinically-led, intelligent commissioning of mental health services based on local population need, with targeted investment in liaison psychiatry services for both adults and children and young people. These teams are essential for providing timely, effective mental health care in acute hospital settings and reducing pressure on emergency departments.
"Furthermore, we would like to see the recommendations from the clinically-led review of mental health standards fully implemented. Delivering on these standards will require a substantial increase in workforce capacity, and without this, progress will stall. It is critical that any reforms in mental health service delivery are matched by serious, sustained investment in staffing and infrastructure to meet growing demand and ensure safe, high-quality care."
For further information, please contact:
- Email: press@rcpsych.ac.uk
- Twitter: @rcpsych
- Out-of-hours contact number: 07860 755896
