"There must be an opportunity to effectively learn from patient safety incidents," says BPS

Responding to the report into mental health patient discharges from the Health Services Safety Investigations Body, President of the British Psychological Society Dr Roman Raczka said: 

"The latest report from the Health Services Safety Investigations Body highlights the urgent need for joined-up care for those using mental health inpatient services, as well as those who have been recently discharged. 

"Over 6m referrals are made to NHS Talking Therapies and other mental health services every year in England alone. Service users deserve high quality care in safe and compassionate environments whilst accessing inpatient services, and in the community upon discharge. 

"There must be an opportunity to effectively learn from patient safety incidents, however, a long-term lack of investment in services is preventing this from happening. The government must properly fund mental health services and grow the workforce, while embedding a greater focus on prevention. Only then will mental health patients, and their families, get the expert support they need."