Sarah Carr challenges government on "Cinderella status" given to mental illness in the NHS
4.38.16pm GMT Fri 18th Dec 2009
With the pantomime season in full swing, Hereford and South Herefordshire's Prospective Liberal Democrat MP, Sarah Carr has challenged the Government on the "Cinderella status" given to mental illness in the NHS.
Sarah Carr said:
"A recently published report by Lord Layard reveals that there are more mentally ill people on incapacity benefits than the total number of unemployed people on benefit. One in every four people will have mental health problems during their life but the 18 week waiting time target only applies to physical ailments and not to mental health.
"Why does the Government treat mental health problems as the Cinderella of the NHS when the new NHS Constitution states: 'You have the right not to be unlawfully discriminated against in the provision of NHS services on grounds of mental illness'?"
"Herefordshire residents are right to be concerned about the restricted access to mental health support. Early support can avoid huge personal and family trauma, as well as job loss. I will continue to pay very close attention to the level of services that are offered to mental health patients in Herefordshire."
Sarah is known for her campaigning on health care issues and has been a vocal advocate for people suffering from mental illness. Sarah recently campaigned to stop the decimation of vital gardens belonging to the Stonebow mental health unit in Hereford.
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