STORY
A Government call for evidence on a new mental health strategy has closed after eight weeks of submissions from patients, families, professionals and voluntary organisations. The strategy is intended to examine prevention, access to treatment and the way mental health support is delivered across public services.
Ministers said the work would include the needs of autistic people and people with ADHD, who face a higher risk of mental ill health. A separate cross-government autism strategy is also planned, with further consideration being given to whether its scope should include ADHD.
The Department of Health and Social Care will now review the evidence before publishing detailed proposals. Organisations representing patients and staff are likely to focus on workforce shortages, waiting times, crisis care and the availability of early support in schools and communities.