Commons Sense

House of Commons · Westminster Hall

Mental Health Support: Frontline Staff

08 October 2020 · 3 other contributors · 7,788 words

Opened by Lisa Cameron SNP East Kilbride, Strathaven and Lesmahagow

Responding minister: Nadine Dorries

Mental HealthNHS

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Lisa Cameron raised concerns about mental health support: frontline staff in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key points

  • MP is concerned about severe mental health crisis affecting frontline workers due to the pandemic.
  • Statistics show disruptions in mental health services in over 120 countries during the pandemic, with only 17% having full additional funding.
  • MP asks government to model and plan for increased demand in mental health support, provide additional funding, and fund local initiatives for early support.

Key requests to Government

The MP asks the government to model and plan for increased demand in mental health support due to coronavirus, provide additional funding for safe services, fund local initiatives for early mental health support, ensure research and funding for social care staff, protect NHS staff from potential negligence claims, and announce a properly resourced mental health strategy.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Lisa Cameron SNP East Kilbride, Strathaven and Lesmahagow

The MP is concerned about the severe mental health crisis affecting frontline workers due to the pandemic. Statistics from the WHO show that over 120 countries reported disruptions in mental health services during the pandemic, with only 17% having full additional funding for these services. In England alone, up to 10 million people may need long-term mental health support as a result of covid-19, including 1.5 million children. NHS workers are particularly at risk, with over 200,000 potentially needing treatment for PTSD and psychological distress.

Other contributors (3)
  • Ian Paisley Jnr DUP North Antrim

    Called Owen Thompson to speak as Jim Shannon is not present.

  • Owen Thompson SNP Midlothian

    The MP will cover in depth the work of the Scottish Government in relation to mental health strategies during the pandemic, focusing on issues raised by the lead MP. Mr Thompson highlighted the mental health challenges faced by frontline staff during the pandemic, noting that one in four healthcare professionals suffered from depression and anxiety. He called for more trained psychologists and counsellors to provide tailored support and emphasised the importance of recognising the emotional toll on unpaid carers, with 68% of young adult carers reporting worsened mental health due to coronavirus.

  • Rosena Allin-Khan Lab Tooting

    Ms Allin-Khan highlighted the immense sacrifices made by frontline health and care staff during the pandemic, particularly noting the mental health toll from long-term exposure to stressful conditions without proper support. She cited NHS absence figures showing over half a million days lost due to mental ill health in May alone, more than for covid-related reasons despite high transmission rates at that time. She also mentioned 92% of NHS trusts being concerned about staff wellbeing and the need for tailored mental health support for all workers.

Government Response

Nadine Dorries

I echo the sentiments of the hon. Member for Tooting and thank Dr Cameron for securing the debate, praising her contributions on mental health topics. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic was challenging for frontline staff who worked long hours in emotionally draining conditions. Support measures were put in place early, including helplines operated by Samaritans open from 7 am to 11 pm and a text service available 24/7. Additionally, over 150,000 mental health apps have been downloaded by key workers, virtual staff common rooms established for reflection and sharing experiences, and training provided for line managers. NHS England developed a comprehensive package of support including occupational health services and mental health conversation training. The Government also allocated £9.2 million to mental health charities during the pandemic and launched Every Mind Matters campaign for adults and children. Further measures include establishing staff mental health hubs across the country to provide proactive outreach, overcome barriers to seeking help, and build capacity in local teams. Despite concerns about a potential rise in post-traumatic stress disorder among frontline workers, current evidence does not show an increase in suicides or severe mental health issues beyond pre-existing conditions. However, the Government is prepared for future challenges by ensuring continued access to mental health services and support networks.

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