Responding to the National Audit Office report on mental health services, RCN Professional Lead for Mental Health Nursing, Stephen Jones, said:
“This report reflects the huge strain that mental health services are under, particularly since the pandemic which has led to soaring demand.
“That some young people, including those with severe illnesses like eating disorders, are unable to access the care they need is especially concerning.
“Like the rest of nursing, mental health nursing is in the grip of an acute workforce crisis and this report highlights the need for much greater investment in staffing.
“The lack of community services is leading to delays in discharging patients from hospital – and the lack of beds means in some cases patients are being sent many miles from home, compounding their distress.
“Further investment into primary care to ease pressures on hospitals is also a must. Only then will some of the most vulnerable be able to get the help they need.”
Ends
Notes to editors
The full report, Progress in improving mental health services in England, can be read here
