RCN comments on Mind research

Published: 28 November 2012

The Royal College of Nursing has described the results of research which identified failings and cutbacks in crisis teams as “shocking”.

RCN Chief Executive & General Secretary Dr Peter Carter said the research by the charity Mind shows serious failings in the care which is offered to people at times when they are extremely vulnerable.

“Sadly we are not surprised, as our members have told us about the unacceptable squeeze on staffing levels across the board. Crisis teams are an emergency service, and like all such services it is irresponsible and short-sighted to cut them back to the bare bones,” he said.

The RCN says that if more than four in 10 mental health trusts in England are unable to maintain the staffing levels which the Department of Health recommends, it is “hardly surprising” that the people who rely on these services feel badly let down.

“Waiting longer for crisis care, being assessed too slowly or in some cases not at all, are all situations with profound consequences for the individual concerned and their loved ones. Huge progress has been made in improving physical health, particularly responding to emergencies, and it is time mental health was treated with the same level of urgency,” added Dr Carter.

The RCN is urging trusts to maintain investment in these vital services.