The Care Quality Commission (CQC) yesterday (Wednesday 20th July) published the findings of its inspection of all specialist mental health services, giving the most complete picture ever of the quality of mental health provision for people in England.

Inspectors said they found too much poor care and far too much variation in both quality and access across different services. This is particularly concerning given the increasing demand for mental health services, meaning that more people risk receiving care that is not good enough – or no care at all.

Liberal Democrat Shadow Health Secretary Norman Lamb commented:

“The evidence is overwhelming that mental health services are at breaking point in many parts of the country. Too many people are left waiting intolerably long for the treatment they need, while others get no help at all.

“My fear is that the safety and access concerns identified by the CQC will become increasingly widespread unless services are given extra resources to cope with growing demand.

“The independent regulator has thrown down the gauntlet with its warning that there is too much poor care and unequal access to mental health services. How the Government responds will be a test of its commitment to achieving genuine equality for those who suffer from mental ill health.”