Following the news of Claire Murdoch's resignation as NHS England’s National Director for Mental Health, Jane Hughes, Chief Executive of Mental Health Matters, has shared her thanks and praise for Claire’s contribution to mental health, and called for renewed commitment to the voluntary sector.

Commenting on behalf of Mental Health Matters, Jane responded:

"Claire has been a leading voice in the NHS for more than four decades. The sector owes her enormous gratitude for the way she transformed mental health support and for the bold, necessary reforms she championed as National Director.

She has always recognised the vital role of the VCFSE sector in providing mental health support across the country, and we urge the Department of Health and Social Care to renew its commitment to the third sector, which Claire consistently supported during her time in post.

Claire leaves behind a remarkable record, and mental health services are stronger today because of her dedication and willingness to engage over the past nine years. She will be deeply missed by many across the sector.

We hope her successor will build on the legacy she leaves behind."