Rachel has vowed to continue pushing for further investment in mental health services following a virtual round table with Redditch charities and organisations.
On Friday January 22nd, Rachel brought together representatives from the NHS, Public Health and Worcestershire County Council, as well Redditch charities and organisations including REACH CIC, Support Redditch, Church Hill Big Local, Sandycroft Centre, Choirs Connected and HeadGym.
The round table focussed on mental health provision in Redditch, the impact of the pandemic and what more resources are needed to continue supporting those in need.
Rachel said:
“The impact of the lockdown has shown us the importance of looking after our mental health. We’ve made great strides in talking about our mental health, but we still have some progress to make until we talk about mental health in the same way we do with physical illnesses.
“The pandemic has highlighted how innovative mental health service providers have been in making sure they reach people who need help and support.
“That’s why it was fantastic to bring together Redditch charities and organisations, as well as the NHS and County Council, who are on the front line providing mental health services to my constituents, to talk about the provision available and to thank them personally for the role they play in supporting my constituents in their time of need.
“Although the Government is investing an extra £2.3 billion in mental health services, I look forward to continuing to work with local charities, organisations and the NHS to ensure they have the resources they need so they can provide the best mental health services.”
The round table also enabled Redditch charities and organisations to forge greater links with the NHS and the County Council to ensure they work more closely together.
Matthew Hall, Chief Operating Officer at Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust, said:
“The effect of the pandemic has been profound on all of us and it has undoubtedly had an impact on our overall mental health and wellbeing. It is important that local groups and organisations come together to understand local issues and support people across our communities who need help.
“The key message is that it is ok not to be ok, especially under the current circumstances, and local NHS mental health services, as well as a range of vital community support groups, are open and can provide lots of help and advice for people across Redditch and the wider community too.”
