NHS Confederation responds to CQC survey of community mental health users

Responding to the Care Quality Commission’s (CQC) survey of community mental health users Rebecca Gray, mental health director at the NHS Confederation, said:

“This new survey is further worrying evidence of the delays people are facing trying to access vital mental health care, with many of these people waiting in debilitating ill health. As the CQC’s findings show, the longer people wait the more likely they were to report their conditions deteriorating. If we want to ensure people are supported to recover and stay well, supporting them at the time they need it is essential.

“NHS mental health providers are working hard to reduce waiting lists and better support people while they wait. Sadly, due to the financial pressure the NHS is facing, some trusts are having to consider further raising the thresholds for care or closing services. While commitments to greater mental health support in schools and the roll out of hubs for young people are positive, they will take time and the need for many currently waiting is urgent.”