Press

Press Release

2nd October 2006

Postcodes must not play a part in mental health provision

Responding to the publication of the Health Care Commission’s review of 174 mental health teams in England today, United Response’s Chief Executive Su Sayer OBE said:

“We are concerned about the message today’s report will give to those people who have not yet sought help for their mental health problems. Knowing that medication may be the only option available to them may prevent people from coming forward and talking to someone about their needs.

“Everyone with a mental health need should have access to the support they need, no matter where they live. Postcodes must not play a part in mental health provision.”

UR is a national charity working with people with mental health needs or learning disabilities across England, building its support around the needs of the individual and providing everything from early intervention services to helping someone to get a job.

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For more information please contact Sarah Bartlett or Jaime Gill in the United Response Press Office on020 8246 5237/ 020 8246 5122 or email

Notes to editors:

United Response is a national charity supporting people mental health needs or learning disabilities to live the lives they choose.

Though its mental health work United Response works together with clinical providers to deliver tailor-made support based around each individual’s care management programme.

United Response’s emphasis, where possible, is on recovery, focusing on early intervention to prevent more serious problems from occurring.