RCN calls for sustained investment in mental health services

Published: 02 February 2011

For immediate release: 2nd February 2011

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) today responded to the new government strategy for mental health in England, No Health without Mental Health: A Cross-Government mental health outcomes strategy for people of all ages. The RCN welcomed the principles behind the strategy but expressed concerns about the funding gap which is already threatening mental health services.

Royal College of Nursing Chief Executive & General Secretary Dr Peter Carter said:

“Mental health has an incredibly wide-ranging impact on individuals, and people with mental health problems can require support with their physical health, their work and their family lives. We therefore welcome this cross-government strategy which recognises the importance of good mental health as well as the enormous difference mental health services can make.

“However, we remain concerned that this strategy is being released in the context of the NHS to make £20 billion in efficiency savings. No area of care will be immune. We already know that mental health services are feeling the pinch, and mental health nurses are telling us that hastily implemented changes are jeopardising the improvements which have been made over the last ten years. We would urge the government to ensure that continued investment is made so that people with mental health problems get the help they need and which we know improves many lives.”

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Notes for Editor

1.For further information, interviews or illustrations please contact the RCN Media Office on 0207 647 3633, press.office@rcn.org.uk or visit http://www.rcn.org.uk/newsevents/media

2. The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) is the voice of nursing across the UK and is the largest professional union of nursing staff in the world. The RCN promotes the interest of nurses and patients on a wide range of issues and helps shape healthcare policy by working closely with the UK Government and other national and international institutions, trade unions, professional bodies and voluntary organizations.