Mental Health

Part of Backbench Business — [1st Allotted Day] – in the House of Commons at 4:38 pm on 14 June 2012.

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Photo of Sarah Wollaston Sarah Wollaston Conservative, Totnes 4:38, 14 June 2012

I thank the Minister for that, and I look forward to reading his response.

I was pleased to hear that my hon. Friend Gavin Barwell will introduce a Bill to remove stigma. From talking to service users and those who have recovered from mental illness, it is clear to me that they are entirely capable of taking a full part in every aspect of life in their community and workplace, and in our national life. I was glad that the Minister and shadow Minister gave their full and unconditional backing to that Bill, as it will mark a very important step in removing the stigma of mental illness. I also join the Minister in paying tribute to the work of Time to Change, and I hope he will commit to continue to give support to that organisation.

Some 22% of the disease burden in England comes from mental health issues, and it is time that we recognised that in our local and national commissioning. The mental health strategy is excellent, but we now need to ensure it is implemented. I know the Minister has set up a cross-ministerial group centrally, but who in this new system will be accountable for the successful implementation of the strategy locally and regionally—and what levers for change can they exert, and what sanctions will there be if it is not carried out?

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Dee Speers
Posted on 15 Jun 2012 2:29 pm (Report this annotation)

Could we find out when National Suicide Prevention Strategy is being published please and will suicide indicators be reinstated to help keep strategy active?