7 December 2006
Dear Sir,
I was disappointed to read the Observer’s coverage about the Government’s National Confidential Inquiry (One person a week killed by mentally ill, 3 December). The headline does nothing to stem the tide of prejudice, discrimination and fear that is levelled at people with mental health problems.
Whilst every death that occurs is tragic, people are far more likely to be killed by someone they know, in a drunken brawl or by a speeding driver. People with mental health problems are more of a risk to themselves than to others with 25 people committing suicide every week.
Unfortunately, many people with mental health problems are not getting the support they need because of financially stretched services. Many are forced to use temporary staff, which means that individuals are not closely monitored for changes in their mood and behaviour. Community based services are often not adequate because of a lack of resource. The Government needs to invest heavily in mental heath services if people with mental health problems are to receive decent treatment and support, which they both need and deserve.
Dr Moira Fraser
Head of Policy
Mental Health Foundation
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