News Release, Thursday 2 November 2006
The Mental Health Foundation has today commented on the Government’s announcement to improve the safety of inpatient mental health settings. The Department of Health has unveiled measures, which includes investing £30 million to improve the sexual safety of female patients.
Moira Fraser, Head of Policy at the Mental Health Foundation, today said:
“We welcome the recognition of this issue and hope that it will become a priority on the Government’s agenda. For too long, people with mental health problems within services have been at risk from abuse and it is heartening that this issue is now being taken seriously.
“We hope that the measures announced by the Department of Health herald the start of a process to eradicate abuse. The attitudes of managers and frontline staff need to be changed, patients must feel safe to report any incidents of harassment, rape or sexual assault, and any such incidents must always be taken seriously by staff and acted upon, instead of being dismissed. People need to have access to services where they can recover in a safe and protected environment.”
Ends
Read more about the Department of Health's package of measures (on the Department of Health website).
Return to news releases 2006
Notes to editors
For further information please contact the Press Office on 020 7803 1128 / 1130 or email the press office
The Mental Health Foundation uses research and practical projects to help people survive, recover from and prevent mental health problems. We work to influence policy, including government at the highest levels. And we use our knowledge to raise awareness and to help tackle the stigma attached to mental illness. We reach millions of people every year through our media work, information booklets and online services.
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