I am personally moved to call for change. Mental health services are much more than just a health sector, they are our lifeline. These critical services currently receive only a slim portion of the NHS budget: a meager 9%. If additional funding were to be withdrawn, the already extensive waiting lists would grow even longer. We are looking at a scenario where desperate individuals are left stranded, without any support or avenues for help, thereby increasing the risk of suicides. The proposal by Keir Starmer to siphon off mental health support to handle the backlog in physical health waiting lists is simply unacceptable. Mental health matters and should receive a fair share of the NHS budget.

Disregarding the impacts of mental health issues can lead to serious societal repercussions. According to Mental Health Foundation, one in four people will experience a mental health problem of some kind each year in England (1). We cannot turn a blind eye to one-fourth of our population.

We believe that a society is only as strong as its weakest link and mental health issues amongst us weaken our social fabric. Alleviating the waiting times and ensuring access to mental health services need a long-term commitment and consistent funding. The time has come to call on our policy makers to prioritise mental health services and recognise them for the safety nets they are.

Take a stand with us today. Join us in calling for sustained and increased funding for our mental health services. Together, we can bring about lasting change for our country. Please sign this petition to show your support.

Source:
(1) Mental health statistics: UK and worldwide, Mental Health Foundation.

As someone who was let down by the mental health system at a very traumatic time In my life.This is why campaigning means so much to me.To make a difference however small.