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A decision to reduce the 10-year mental health strategy in Stormont has been labeled as “disastrous” by Northern Ireland’s mental health champion, Professor Siobhan O’Neill. This move comes after a review of the strategy revealed that only £12.3m had been invested in 14 actions over the last four years, which is just 16% of the recommended amount. The strategy initially required £1.2bn to implement the 35 actions outlined, but the Department for Health has now decided to scale back the plan due to lack of funds.
Health Minister Mike Nesbitt acknowledged that no additional funding has been allocated to support the strategy since its publication in 2021. He expressed personal disappointment that a deliverability review was required midway through the strategy, emphasizing that the new approach will aim to maximize impact within the available resources. However, Professor O’Neill expressed deep concern over the devastating news, especially for those who were involved in developing the strategy and existing schemes that are already in progress.
The review revealed that out of the 35 actions, 15 have not yet commenced and have received no funding. Professor O’Neill highlighted that Northern Ireland spends less per capita on mental health services compared to other regions, despite facing more complex cases. She urged the executive to take immediate action, emphasizing that the current situation is unacceptable. According to the Department’s Strategic Planning & Performance Group, Northern Ireland spends £212 per person on mental health services, whereas England spends £264 per person.
Moving forward, the focus for 2026/27 will be on enhancing the mental health workforce and regional mental health crisis services. Subsequent years will concentrate on the mental health of older individuals, children, and teenagers, as well as providing support for individuals with severe and enduring mental health conditions, and digital mental health. The health minister reiterated that despite financial constraints, their commitment to mental health delivery remains strong, with a need for sustained and additional investment to fully realize the strategy. Members of the Social Democratic and Labour Party have called for more funding from the Northern Ireland Executive to address mental health needs adequately
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