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The King's Fund responds to Fonagy Review

Sarah Woolnough, Chief Executive of The King’s Fund responded to the publication of the Independent review into prevalence and support for mental health conditions, ADHD and autism

‘The report makes it clear that there is a genuine rise in mental distress and common mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. In addition, recognition of ADHD and autism has increased. Thousands of young people are waiting too long for support and treatment, with lasting impacts on their wellbeing and development, their education, and ability to participate in everyday life. We cannot continue with the system as it currently stands.

‘The review’s recommendations set out a significant and welcome shift towards a more ‘needs-led’ approach. This means that people should be able to access timely support irrespective of whether they receive a diagnosis, whilst ensuring access to specialist care for those with the highest needs. We are also encouraged by the proposed move to integrate mental health and neurodiversity services, acknowledging that many people’s needs do not fit into one single category.

‘However, such significant changes come with significant implications for health and care services, including impacting workforce training, data collection, and the use of digital tools and infrastructure. It is important that actions to implement these recommendations are backed with the right amount of support and investment.

‘The success of this model, together with taking forward recommendations of the forthcoming review on people not in education, employment or training (NEET), and the government’s mental health strategy, will be dependent on a cross-government approach to address the wider factors in people’s lives that can contribute to poor mental health, and to facilitate inclusion and participation of people with mental health needs.’

Notes to editors

 

Original article link: https://www.kingsfund.org.uk/insight-and-analysis/press-releases/tkf-responds-fonagy-review

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