News Release, 30 January 2006
The Mental Health Foundation today welcomed the Government’s White Paper on health and social reform, and the commitment expressed to helping people maintain their mental and emotional well being, but warned that some plans are unrealistic.
Dr Andrew McCulloch, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation said:
“The plans laid out in the White Paper are very encouraging - the government has recognised the importance of maintaining good mental and emotional well being – and we hope that the NHS ‘Life Check’ will equally assess a person’s mental health as well as their physical health.
“However, the government’s plan to provide comprehensive child and adolescent mental health services, across the country, by the end of 2006 is simply unrealistic. Our research shows that very few areas in the country are even approaching a comprehensive service, particularly for troubled teenagers.
“Whilst the government has identified that primary care offers significant opportunities to tackle mental ill-health, the White Paper does not lay out a strategy for developing primary mental health care. As 90 per cent of mental illness is treated in primary care, and this amounts to 30 per cent of GP workload, such a strategy is essential.”
Read more about the 'Our Health, Our Care, Our Say' White Paper (on the Department of Health website)
Return to news releases 2006
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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