Mental Health Services

The new National Priority Programme Director for mental health and learning disability works across the Department and NHS England and is responsible for setting the new strategic direction through the new Mental Health Strategy, in line with ministerial priorities and delivering the reforms set out in the 10-Year Health Plan.

To develop and deliver the strategy, we will work closely with partners across the system, including integrated care boards and local authorities. We have launched a Call for Evidence to inform the strategy, which closes on 10 July. It seeks practical evidence on how to deliver the shift to prevention, earlier intervention and community-based support within and beyond the National Health Service.

Many of the key factors that influence mental health sit outside the health system, such as housing, education, and employment. The strategy will therefore look beyond the NHS to consider the role of schools, workplaces, the voluntary sector, and local government, bringing together activity across the Government into a more unified, whole-system approach to promote good mental health and support earlier intervention, including through prevention and community-based support across sectors.

Prevention of mental-ill health is critical, and we will consider a range of options to support this, including whether there is a case for new statutory duties, with any decisions subject to further development and engagement.