The Ulster Unionist Party Mental Health Spokesperson, Robbie Butler MLA, has expressed his concerns over the increased waiting time for patients suffering from mental health issues, with none of the five health trusts meeting the required target of 13 weeks.

Robbie Butler MLA said:

“The mental health and wellbeing of the people of Northern Ireland impacts our economy and wider society. Mental health should be placed at the very centre of our public health service.

“It is estimated that one in four adults and one in nine children will experience mental health problems at some point in their lives. These latest figures on mental health waiting times are shocking. Clearly not enough is being done to prioritise mental health and wellbeing and more should be done to establish parity of recognition with physical health.

“Mental health problems can cause individuals to live unfulfilled lives, and can tragically lead to people committing suicide. We need to provide those in need with proper care and support. In spite of the dedication and professionalism of staff, our health service is clearly not delivering on mental health.

“It is estimated that an extra 160 full-time staff will be required to help ever growing demands, with nearly an additional 1000 people coming on to the mental health waiting list over the last four years.

“Compared to the rest of the UK, the funding gap for psychological therapies is estimated to be £12 million, clearly this needs to be addressed.

“The Minister for Health, Michelle O’Neill, urgently needs to develop a new approach to tackle mental health waiting lists so we are delivering fit for purpose services for those most in need.”

ENDS