Alzheimer’s Society comment on WHO report showing England as leader in mental health
Published 9 October 2008
While today's report suggests England is leading the way in mental health, this is not true for all services, especially dementia.
As the number of people living with dementia in the UK rises from 700 000 to over a million in the next 15 years we must bring dementia care out of the dark ages and in line with Europe.
The planned National Dementia Strategy for England due to be published in November must match the scale of the challenge we face and reverse this Cinderella story of the NHS.
Neil Hunt
Chief Executive
Alzheimer's Society
Reference:
Health Secretary Alan Johnson today welcomed publication of a landmark international report, which highlights that mental health services in England are leading the way in Europe. The report from the World Health Organisation, published to mark World Mental Health Day on 10 October, showed that:
- England directs 13.8% of the health budget towards mental health - highest level in Europe among those who submitted figures
- We provide high levels of access to mental health care, with 12.7 psychiatrists per 100,000 population, compared to the European average of 8.9.
- Access to mental health nursing care is also higher than average, with 51.9 nurses per 100,000, compared with the European average of 18.7.
- England are the only country to provide a comprehensive network of specialist early intervention teams.
- England is one of only three countries to provide comprehensive access to assertive outreach teams.
- England has 23 mental health beds per 100,000, reflecting continued focus on moving mental health treatment out of institutions and into the community.
Alzheimer's Society
Alzheimer's Society is the leading care and research charity for people with all forms dementia and their carers. It provides information and education, support for carers, and quality day and home care. It funds medical and scientific research and campaigns for improved health and social services and greater public understanding of dementia.
Alzheimer's Society provides a national help line on 0845 3000 336 and website alzheimers.org.uk. Please include this information in any publication that uses these comments.
For more information contact the press office on 0207 423 3595 or email press@alzheimers.org.uk
