News Release, 18 January 2006
In response to the announcement that five NHS mental health trusts are applying for the first time for foundation status, Andrew McCulloch, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation, today said,
“We welcome news that five leading mental health trusts are applying for foundation status. While mental health deserves to be included in new developments in the health service there are many problems attached to the foundation trusts model. Added to this we do not yet know we do not yet know how payment by results are going to be handled in the mental health sector.
"The Government must proceed with extreme caution. Some of the biggest challenges the health service will face in coming years are in mental health. While many of the Department of Health’s policy initiatives rightly acknowledge the need for diverse local services provided by the public voluntary and private sectors, introducing foundation trusts may well turn the tide in the wrong direction. By creating highly centralised superstructures for commissioning mental health services the government will threaten the diversity and effectiveness of services that are now developing.”
Ends
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Notes to editors
For further information and interview requests contact 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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