Responding to the announcement from the Department of Health and Social Care on extra funding for early support hubs, RCN Head of Nursing Practice and Professional Lead for Mental Health Stephen Jones said:
"The RCN has repeatedly pushed the government to invest in early mental health intervention and we’re pleased to see these calls recognised with additional funding for early support hubs. But as demand continues to rise, this must be one step of many.
"Across England’s NHS mental health services, there are over 13,000 unfilled nursing posts, accounting for nearly 1 in 3 of all nurse vacancies. Shortages like this have real-world consequences, leaving staff unable to meet the needs of all patients suffering a mental health crisis.
"More funding, like that announced today, should help improve mental health services. However, ministers are urged not to become complacent and invest in the nursing workforce which delivers these vital interventions."
