Much more to do to improve mental health services across England

The deputy chief executive of NHS Providers, Saffron Cordery said:

"Trusts are working hard to provide high quality mental health services and to manage risks to patient safety against a backdrop of soaring demand and resource pressures.

"This investigation lays bare however, how much more needs to be done nationally and locally to provide therapeutic mental health inpatient services for all patients across England.

"While there are improvements individual trusts and services can make, HSSIB rightly recognises that there are a range of issues beyond trusts' control, which hinders their ability to provide care to the consistently high standards they aspire to for their patients.

"Mental health services have faced relentless pressure in recent years with demand for care far outstripping capacity. Significant shortfalls in both the number and skill mix of staff needed to provide effective mental health services continues to be a major barrier to providing safe, therapeutic care.

"The poor condition of the mental health estate - much of which is not fit for purpose – is a cause of concern. It’s vital the government takes urgent action to ensure all trusts have access to sufficient capital funding to halt the deterioration of their estate, eradicate the repairs backlog and provide high-quality care in environments fit for the 21st century."