Samaritans responds to Government's call for evidence ahead of new 10-year mental health plan

The UK Government has announced a 12-week call for evidence to inform a new 10-year mental health plan and a refreshed national suicide prevention plan, seeking views on what can be improved within the current service, particularly in light of the pandemic.

Responding to the announcement, Mubeen Bhutta, Head of Policy, Public Affairs & Campaigns at Samaritans, said:

“Suicide is preventable and the refreshed suicide prevention strategy and next 10-year mental health plan are real opportunities to save lives and make sure we learn lessons from previous approaches.

“It’s crucial this consultation hears from people with lived experience. The long-term impact of the global covid 19 pandemic is likely to play out over many years and so it is vital that we have a well-planned strategy to ensure that mental health and suicide prevention are considered just as important as physical health to the wellbeing of the nation.”

For interview requests, please contact our Press Office at [email protected]