Access to Mental Health Services 2023-12-05
2023-12-05
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP notes ongoing issues with wait times for mental health services, particularly in Sussex where the trust faces resource shortages. Wait times are reported at 190 days for children and young people.
What steps is she taking to improve access to mental health services? The Minister will know that the Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust does vital work but lacks resources; wait times are 190 days for children and young people. A mother in Peacehaven's son waits for an ADHD diagnosis, affecting his school performance.
Higher rates of mental health illness exist in Sussex with a 15% increase in A&E attendances. Multiple schemes are available: Health in Mind offers psychological support, the Sussex mental health crisis line is now open 24/7 via 111, and blue light triage and Brighton and Hove mental health rapid response services are also available.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific assurances about reduced wait times and additional resources were not provided
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP discusses wait times for children and young people in Sussex at 190 days, impacting their ability to receive necessary support.
Wait times are 190 days for children and young people in the constituency; a mother's son waits for an ADHD diagnosis affecting his school performance. What assurances can be given that wait times will decrease and resources will increase?
Multiple schemes exist in Sussex: Health in Mind offers psychological support, the 24/7 mental health crisis line is accessible via 111, blue light triage services are being rolled out, and a rapid response service operates 24/7.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific assurances about reduced wait times and increased resources were not given
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP references the Government's previous manifesto commitment to reform the Mental Health Act, highlighting issues such as disproportionate sectioning of black and minority ethnic people and inappropriate settings for those with learning disabilities.
The Minister mentioned parity of esteem but not fulfilling the 2017 and 2019 manifesto commitment to reform the Mental Health Act; no Bill is in the King's Speech. Can she agree that issues prior to 2017, such as disproportionate sectioning and inappropriate settings for those with learning disabilities, still exist? What encouragement can she give to reform the Act?
It remains our intention to bring forward a Bill when parliamentary time allows. We have put through pre-legislative scrutiny and are responding to the Joint Committee's report.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific encouragement regarding appointment of a mental health commissioner was not provided
Response accuracy