Mental health charities struggle with demand

After years of underfunding, the cumulative impact of pandemic and cost of living pressures, research reveals alarming insights into the demand on mental health services. The Association of Mental Health providers, the national voice for charities providing mental health and wellbeing services in England and Wales, warns of a ‘perfect storm’.

Over 8 million people are supported by mental health charities – that works out as 1 in every 8 people in the UK. A survey of the Association’s 300 plus members has revealed a 100% increase in waiting times for access to specialist referral and crisis services since summer 2022 and a 50% rise in people presenting with increasing needs, particularly with anxieties related to money and housing because of poverty and the cost-of-living crisis.

The Association calculates more than two million people are either unable to access any mental health care or needing more specialist services than those being provided.

Aston spoke to Kathy Roberts, CEO of the Assocaiation of Mental Health Providers.