Last week, a survey by NHS Providers revealed that nearly half of NHS trust leaders are scaling back services, with a further 43% considering doing so. Alarmingly, NHS Talking Therapies has been identified as one of the services at risk.

Commenting on behalf of Mental Health Matters, Chief Executive Officer, Jane Hughes, responded:

"As an early partner in the delivery of NHS Talking Therapies, the programme has been a standout success in delivering better outcomes for people seeking mental health support for over 16 years. In December, the Office for National Statistics also highlighted the significant benefits of the programme on employment outcomes.

But there are people behind these statistics. Countless people are on the road to recovery, back at work, or rebuilding their futures thanks to the life-changing support they received from NHS Talking Therapies.

Underfunding NHS Talking Therapies would reduce its reach and weaken its impact when demand for mental health support continues to grow

It is deeply concerning that the NHS Providers survey has found that the funding crisis is placing this programme at risk. Underfunding NHS Talking Therapies would reduce its reach and weaken its impact at a time when demand for mental health support continues to grow.

The Government has rightfully placed an emphasis on early intervention in mental health, shifting the focus from cure to prevention. Cuts to Talking Therapies contradicts this approach and puts people at risk of deteriorating to the point of crisis.

We urge the Government and trusts to work together to protect a programme that can make a substantial contribution to delivering on the Government’s mission to transform the NHS."