I was delighted to speak this morning with Ann Beasley (Chair), Vanessa Ford( Chief Executive), and Angus Walker (Public Affairs and Stakeholder Engagement Manager) from the SW London and St George’s (SWLSTG) Mental Health NHS Trust to discuss mental health concerns during and after the pandemic and what more is needed to support vulnerable children and adults.
This week, SWLSTG Mental Health NHS Trust secured an incredible £2.8 million to support the development of its adult community mental health services. The funding will see the development of new models of care designed to support community transformation services, with Sutton being selected as the Trust’s pilot area in South West London! This is the biggest ever investment in our local mental health services and will ensure more people from a variety of backgrounds will have access to the vital resources they need.
The Trust also discussed their overarching objectives for this year, including improving quality of care; reducing inequalities in access to mental health support; and improving infrastructure. It was fantastic to receive an update on the two new mental health facilities which are set to open in 2022 at Springfield University Hospital. A major investment into modern mental health services, the new facilities will also include a 32-acre public park (the biggest public park since the Olympics) and a ‘Springfield Village’ comprising of green spaces, shops and cafés. I look forward to visiting Springfield Hospital with Ann, Vanessa and Angus as soon as possible.
This week is Mental Health Awareness Week and I was pleased to have the opportunity to ask the Prime Minister during his statement on COVID-19 to ensure that those needing support for mental health be front and centre of our plans for the NHS as we emerge from the pandemic. I was pleased to hear the Prime Minister confirm the fantastic support being invested into mental health, as well as the new appointment of a mental health youth ambassador to support young people through this difficult time.
To echo the words of the Prime Minister, those who have been struggling during the pandemic with their mental health should not hesitate to seek help. Action for Children has fantastic online support for parents, including a live chat with experienced professionals for free. Locally, the Sutton Mental Health Foundation is on hand to offer help and support on 020 8770 0172 or if you urgently need help please contact Samaritans on 116 123.
Thank you to Ann, Vanessa and Angus for taking the time to speak with me today and thank you to their incredible team for all they have done to keep going throughout the pandemic. I look forward to working with the Trust to ensure everyone in Carshalton and Wallington has access to the mental health services they need.
Image via Wandsworth Times | Riley Krause
