17 October 2008
In response to improvements in the performance of Mental Health Trusts found by the Healthcare Commission, Dr Andrew McCulloch, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation, said:
“These improvements seem like a real step in the right direction, and as a testament to the hard work of NHS staff and managers they should be welcomed.
However, we shouldn’t forget that too many people in touch with services still aren’t getting the support they need. In particular, we need to make sure inpatient services provide a genuinely therapeutic environment, not just a place of refuge during a crisis, and that everyone has a proper care plan when they leave hospital.
It’s also worth noting that most people with a mental health problem aren’t in touch with mental health services at all, which suggests we should start assessing trusts on how they are meeting actual community needs, rather than just on the quality of the services that they do provide.”
ENDS
Notes for editors:
For more details please contact Simon Loveland on 020 7803 1130 or email sloveland@mhf.org.uk
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. www.mentalhealth.org.uk
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