‘My Government will reform mental health legislation and ensure that mental health is prioritised in the National Health Service in England.’
In June 2017 the Queen’s Speech set out the government’s agenda for the coming session. This included the statement above which appears to commit to working ‘towards a new Mental Health Act’, with a review of the current legislation and the implementation of the Act on the ground, rather than the rumoured Mental Health Treatment Bill.
We see this as an opportunity to strongly advocate for a rights-based Mental Health Act and investment above and beyond NHS provided services. The voluntary sector and local authorities need to be sufficiently resourced to support people and respond to a whole range of issues that negatively impact on the wellbeing of communities.