BPS responds to the King’s Speech

The British Psychological Society has responded to today's King's Speech, welcoming the move to create parity of esteem between mental and physical health, the commitment to ban conversion therapy and to reform the Mental Health Act. 

On the Mental Health Bill, Dr Roman Raczka, President-Elect of the British Psychological Society said:

"We are encouraged that the government has taken a positive first step to make the Mental Health Act fit for purpose by bringing forward a Bill to reform the Act.

"We know that the Mental Health Act has not worked for many patients for a long time, with huge inequalities regarding the disproportionate, and often inappropriate use of detention and restraint.

"Reforming the Act is an ideal opportunity to strengthen the protections and safeguards for those admitted to mental health units where and when appropriate, and make sure people can access the right support, from the right professionals when in a time of crisis."

On commitments to mental health and the NHS, Dr Raczka said:

"We are also pleased to see the government commit to focusing on prevention and improving mental health provision. The commitment to ensure mental health is given the same attention and focus as physical health is very welcome.

"It is vital that physical and mental health are treated equally to ensure people can access the support and services they need, and that should come from a fully funded and well-resourced workforce. Only then will we see outcomes for people with mental health difficulties begin to improve for the better."

The BPS welcomes the news that legislation to ban 'conversion therapy' has been brought forward by the government. 'Conversion therapy' is not an ethical form of identity exploration and is not backed by evidence. Dr Raczka said:

"It's important that people seeking help to explore their sexual orientation or gender identity can continue to do so in a safe space with the support of trained professionals. Therefore, any new legislation must be very clear that it will not prevent ethical forms of therapy, which are non-directive and non-judgemental. The government must make an explicit distinction between so called 'conversion therapy' and normal ethical practice."

The BPS is also encouraged by the commitment to halve violence against women and girls and to improve children's wellbeing and life chances with the Children's Wellbeing Bill. Dr Raczka added:

"We welcome the government's commitment to invest in children's wellbeing which has been long overdue.  Increasing numbers of children and young people are needing to access mental health support. Last year, around one in five of those aged 8-25 were reported to have a mental health problem.

"Psychologists play a pivotal role in providing mental health support to children and young people. Investment must therefore be targeted to decrease the waiting lists for Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and to grow the psychological workforce as soon as possible."