NHS Confederation response to NHS 111 offering crisis mental health support

Responding to NHS England’s announcement that NHS 111 will be offering crisis mental health support for the first time Dr Layla McCay, director of policy at the NHS Confederation, said:

“Placing mental health crisis support in a single phone line across the country is a welcome step in the right direction. Making it simpler to access advice will hopefully make it easier for people experiencing a mental health crisis to get the help they need.

“We know from some well-established 111 services that providing mental health crisis support not only offers an easier way for people to access the services they need, but can also reduce pressure on other parts of the system such as GP services, ambulances and A&Es.

“Incorporating mental health support into existing 111 services may also reduce stigma and could encourage more people to come forward. But with long waits for mental health treatment, we need to make sure that providers are given the right resources to boost capacity and care for the people who come forward requiring treatment.”