Detentions under the mental health act have increased by 20 percent over the last two years, the latest annual report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) has found.

120 MPs have written to Prime Minister Theresa May calling for funding for mental health care to be ring-fenced to ensure it is no longer used to prop up other areas of the NHS, which according to the CQC faces a “precarious future” due to staff shortages and a lack of investment.

Luciana Berger, President of the Labour Campaign for Mental Health, said: “As constituency MPs we see the reality of people with mental health problems unable to access the services they need.”

“Talking is important but it is not enough. The government – and Mrs May who has made repeated promises – must act today.”

Sean Duggan, Chief Executive of the NHS’s Mental Health Network, said: “The challenges faced by the sector are well-known but we would add that the system continues to function well despite these pressures.”

“We are seeing real optimism among service providers and motivation to improve. Planning and transformation is already yielding results.”

“The Five Year Forward View for Mental Health identified the need for additional investment and it is imperative that we stick to this plan. Funding must reach the frontline, particularly in priority areas such as crisis response and child and adolescent services.” 

 

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