Lib Dem launch plans to enhance the NHS mental health support provision

Equal care for mental health

One in four people experiences a mental health problem in any given year. For too long, mental health has been stigmatised and ignored. We strongly believe mental health should be taken as seriously as physical health and are determined to give it the equal attention it deserves. We know that not enough resources reach front line services and that in the fight for parity of esteem, there is still a very long way to go. 

We will press for;

• Additional funding from within the one penny income tax rise to be used to provide additional investment in mental health services

• The introduction of access and waiting time standards and invest in access to therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Counselling, and Interpersonal Psychotherapy.

• Better mental health support for pregnant women, new mothers and those who have experienced miscarriage or stillbirth.

• Strengthen the Crisis Care Concordat and improve follow-up support for people attending A&E after self-harm or a suicide attempt.

• New waiting-time standards and better crisis care in Accident and Emergency, in the community and via phone lines to ensure that no one in crisis is turned away, with. This will enable us to end the use of police cells for people facing a mental health crisis.

• Out of area placements to be brought to an end, ensuring those admitted to hospital for mental ill-health are able to be treated close to home.

• All frontline public service professionals, including in schools and universities, receive better training in mental health.

• LGBT+ inclusive mental health services to receive funding and support they need.