"Stretch targets" for mental health a significant step in the right direction

Responding to confirmation of “stretch targets” for mental health services, as reported in Health Service Journal, the assistant director of the NHS Alliance’s mental health network, Alex Stewart, said:

“This is great news, and we know our members have been closely engaged in this improvement work.

“We have been working closely with them to make the case for mental health to have the same accountability and visibility for waiting times as the hospital sector.

“The agreement of new mental health “stretch targets” is a significant step in the right direction and shows the dedication of the mental health sector to reduce variation and improve services, in a context of rising demand and severe financial pressures."  

“A focus on access for children and young people's mental health support within four weeks is very welcome. Some members are already hitting 100% on this – we know it can be done.

“It is also good to see the additional focus on out of area placements and 12-hour breaches in emergency departments.”