The plans come as part of Wales’ 10-year mental health and wellbeing strategy which was published today (Wednesday 30th April).
Ministers revealed that the strategy is focused on early intervention and prevention to help battle mental health crises in the country. Part of this includes implementing same day mental health support without the need for referral – a plan that the government has claimed is already in motion.
People suffering with their mental health are able to call 111 where they can press 2 for urgent mental health care.
Meanwhile, the government have also said the new strategy will see patients referred for more intensive support only when, and if, it is required.
Against this backdrop, the latest statistics from the Welsh government show there were 5,960 referrals made for a local primary mental health support service assessment in December last year.
‘We know that good mental health depends on much more than healthcare alone,’ Sarah Murphy, minister for mental health and wellbeing said. ‘That’s why we’re working to address all the factors that affect wellbeing – from housing and employment to tackling loneliness and building stronger communities.’
Echoing a similar determined tone, Simon Jones, head of policy and campaigns at Mind Cymru – a leading mental health charity – said the introduction of the plans were a ‘vital step forward’.
He said: ‘This is a moment of opportunity. If this strategy lives up to its potential, it could make substantial improvements to people’s mental health in Wales.’
Wales’ full Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2025-2035 can be accessed in full here.
Image by balesstudio via UnSplash
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