§ 14. Mr. LloydTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to review procedures under the Mental Health Act 1983 which delay the provision of suitable treatment. [59134]
§ Jacqui SmithThe modernisation of mental health services through the National Service Framework, the NHS Plan investment of £300 million by 2004, and reform of legislation proposed in the White Paper "Reforming the Mental Health Act 1983" will provide effective and safe services more easily and quickly.
§ 26. Sandra GidleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what guidance is given to mental health and social care trusts regarding the provision of specialist mental health services for black and ethnic minority users. [59147]
§ Jacqui SmithThe Department has issued guidance on specialist mental health services including
The National Service Framework for Mental Health;The Mental Health Policy Implementation Guide.All departmental guidance stresses that services must be able to meet the needs of black and ethnic minority service users.
§ Mr. Jim CunninghamTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what he is doing to remove the stigma surrounding mental health in relation to the delivery of services. [61897]
§ Jacqui SmithThe 'Mind out for mental health' campaign is a sustained programme of activity with partners in the voluntary sector, the media and business working together to change attitudes and behaviour surrounding mental health. In 2002–03, we shall be widening the focus of the employers' strand of the campaign to address the stigma experienced by people with mental health problems in the national health service. The Department also supports the Royal College of Psychiatrists' 'Changing Minds' campaign to combat stigmatisation of people with mental health problems by, among others, healthcare professionals, specifically doctors.