Mental Health Policy Alliance Response to Draft Programme for Government 2024-2027

Overview

The Mental Health Policy Alliance is a coalition of leading mental health organizations in Northern Ireland. Our mission is to drive strategic policy change, improve service delivery, and ensure mental health is a public health priority.

Key Issues

Mental Health Crisis in Northern Ireland

• High Prevalence: 32% of people reported mental health concerns in the past year.
• Suicide Rates: 203 suicides in 2022, with men making up 76.8% of these deaths.
• Economic Impact: Mental health issues cost the Northern Ireland economy at least £3.4 billion annually.

Service Strain

• Long Waiting Lists: Significant delays for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) and adult mental health services.
• Data Gaps: Lack of accurate data on mental health service waiting times.

Positive Steps in the PfG

• Health and Wellbeing: Recognized as a core theme.
• Early Intervention and Prevention: Focus on promoting resilience and wellbeing among children and young people.
• Cross-Departmental Collaboration: A holistic approach to mental health.

Recommendations for Improvement

Fully Fund and Implement the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031

• Ring-Fenced Funding: For early intervention, community-based services, and workforce development.
• Clear Implementation Timeline: With measurable targets.

Full Funding and Implementation of the Protect Life 2 Suicide Prevention Strategy

• Community-Based Prevention: Focus on high-risk groups and deprived areas.
• 24/7 Crisis Intervention Services: Accessible in rural and underserved areas.

Addressing Social Determinants of Mental Health

• Anti-Poverty Measures: Increase access to affordable housing and social protection schemes.
• Employment Support: Tailored programs for individuals with mental health conditions.

Empowering the Community and Voluntary Sector

• Multi-Year Funding: For sustainable service delivery.
• Equal Partnership: In the design and delivery of mental health services.

Conclusion

The PfG must embed mental health as a cross-cutting priority, fully fund key strategies, and address social determinants to deliver lasting change. Only through a coordinated and adequately resourced response can we ensure mental health becomes a priority for all.