Responding to the Institute for Fiscal Studies’ report on mental
health, the deputy chief executive of NHS Providers, Saffron
Cordery said:
“We welcome the report published by IFS today. It is really
important that we gather as much evidence as possible on the
impact of COVID-19 on people’s mental health and wellbeing and
understand groups that are being particularly affected. This will
help ensure the health response is directed to providing the
support and care that best meets people’s needs.
“Today’s findings complement concerns we highlighted
in our recent
report around a predicted surge in demand for mental
health care as a result of the direct and indirect impacts of
COVID-19, particularly as lockdown eases. We also already know
that COVID-19 disproportionally affects certain groups.
“Mental health trusts are already beginning to report a
significant increase in demand and the severity of new referrals.
This is happening in a context where demand for services is
already outstripping supply despite substantial progress, with
new services and higher levels of investment.
“Without adequate support from government and national policy
makers, there is a risk that the impact of COVID-19 will make the
current care deficit in mental health provision even greater. The
size and complexity of the challenge facing mental health trusts
cannot be underestimated and will require effective
prioritisation.
“To meet the extra demand created by the pandemic, it is vital
that mental health trusts and key services provided by local
authorities and the third sector receive sufficient funding and
it reaches the frontline services that need it most. Trusts also
need capital funding to expand services and improve the mental
health estate. A new workable strategic national plan for the
mental health workforce is also crucial.”
