Resolution from Weaver Vale CLP accepted as policy by Central Council 26 April 2014:
Despite this Governments claim to support parity of esteem between physical and mental health and well being, Mental Health has been given a significantly poorer deal and has borne a far greater pro rata share of the NHS cuts. This is evidenced by the higher financial cut to Mental Health NHS Trusts for 2014/15 than NHS Acute Trusts.
Coupled with significant cuts by many Local Authorities to their own Adult Community Mental Health Services, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, and Voluntary Sector Grants at a time of rising demand, and lengthening waiting times into psychological therapies, has created a national Mental Health crisis.
The Socialist Health Association urges an incoming Labour government to urgently redress the resource imbalance and ensure Mental Health Services are properly funded, staffed and responsive.