Press Release
11th May 2007
Mental health services must look beyond clinical needs
lcoming the publication of Professor Appleby's report today on the next phase of mental health care reform, Su Sayer, Chief Executive of United Response said:
"We need to work together to create services that not only respond to a person's clinical needs, but which look beyond them to provide people with the information and ongoing support they need to live full lives in the community. "
"In our experience, many people with mental health needs want to work, but some lack the confidence to do so. Stigma continues to be a major hurdle, as does the fear that there won't be support available to them once they return to the workplace. We need to help employers to change their misconceptions on mental health and reassure people that support will be there, should they need it. Returning to work can bring real benefits to a person's health and quality of life: not only does it bring in much needed income, but it can create a new network of friends, providing peer support. With the right funding and the right services at this crucial stage an enormous difference can be made in people's lives, helping them on the road to recovery."
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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 emailsarah.bartlett@unitedresponse.org.uk or jaime.gill@unitedresponse.org.ukNotes to Editors:
United Response is a charity creating opportunities with people with mental health needs or learning disabilities. Built around the changing needs of the people it supports, United Response provides everything from 24-hour care, through to supporting people to live independently in their own homes and helping people who want to work to find meaningful employment. United Response works with people across England and Wales, supporting them to make decisions about how they want to live their lives and helping them to play an active role in their community.