In brief from the BPS, January/February 2025

Children's health call

The BPS has called for the government to address underfunded children's health services, as part of a coalition, the Children and Young People's Health Policy Influencing Group, which has published a roadmap to help the NHS meet the government's manifesto pledge of creating the healthiest generation of children ever.

Chair of the BPS Faculty for Children Young People and their Families Dr Rachel Bradley said along with other members of the coalition, the society welcomed the government's commitment to a prevention-first approach to healthcare.

'However, a government that wants to seriously prioritise early intervention needs to ensure there are well-funded children's health services that are accessible, readily available and tackle the nation's vast health inequalities.'

View the coalition's roadmap.

Cognitive tests for older drivers

The BPS has responded to a Scottish judge's ruling that drivers over 80 should have to take a cognitive test to renew their driving licences. Sheriff principal Nigel Ross' fatal accident inquiry ruling came following the death of three-year-old Xander Irvine in 2020 after he was hit by a 91-year-old driver with dementia.

Dr Natasha Lord, Chair of the BPS Faculty of Psychology of Older People said any new scheme must be fit for purpose.

'Driving for many older people is vital to them retaining their independence, especially in rural areas where local transport links are lacking. Often it is the main way for older people to engage in social activities, attend appointments and contribute to family life… We look forward to working with the government to obtain the best outcomes for older drivers, other road users and the general public.'

Mental Health Bill

The Mental Health Bill which will reform the Mental Health Act has recently been announced in parliament. BPS president Dr Roman Raczka (pictured) said the reforms to the Mental Health Act were long overdue and that the act in its current form had failed a substantial number of patients and had led to huge inequalities regarding the disproportionate and often inappropriate use of detention and restraint.

'It is particularly pleasing therefore to see that police and prison cells will no longer be used for people experiencing a mental health crisis. Within the alternative healthcare facilities offered, we must ensure they are places of safety for those most in need. But there is more work to be done. An increase in the psychological workforce, as well as a funding uplift, will be vital to ensuring patients can get the support they need and in the most appropriate settings. Otherwise, the government's aspirations of increasing the frequency of statutory reviews, improving the treatment available, and reducing the numbers of people with a learning disability or autism subject to detention won't be possible.'

See also the BPS briefing.

See BPS News for additional details about these stories and more.