Funding promises welcome but uncertainty over Personal Independence Payments deeply concerning, warns BPS

Funding pledges from the Conservatives for mental health services in England are welcome, but the proposed reforms to Personal Independence Payments are deeply worrying, says the British Psychological Society. 

Responding to the Conservative Party's manifesto launch, Dr Roman Raczka, President-Elect of the British Psychological Society said:

"Additional funding for NHS Talking Therapies and the expansion of the mental health support teams in schools are welcome pledges from the Conservatives. It is imperative that those with mental health difficulties get the support they need without long delays and a focus is placed on prevention.

"It is worrying however that the proposals to move away from Personal Independence Payments, a vital lifeline for millions, are so prominently featured in the manifesto. Such a move, which was first published in the Disability Green Paper, would be counterproductive, and instead cause increased stress and anxiety for those most in need.

"Everyone living with a mental health condition deserves support in gaining financial security, rather than threats of having their benefits and support removed. We urge the Conservatives to instead focus on helping to support those who face mental health challenges by sufficiently funding mental health services and growing the mental health workforce." 

____

This general election, Psychology Matters. All political parties must ensure they take a psychological approach to policymaking which places people first. Read the BPS's manifesto for the 2024 General Election.