Increase NHS psychiatric beds to reduce waits and unsafe placements

Background

Increase funding for NHS psychiatric inpatient beds across England. Long waits and bed shortages mean some detained patients are placed in general wards, creating safety risks and blocking beds for physical health care. Capacity needs to be expanded to ensure timely, appropriate treatment.

Additional details

Delays in accessing psychiatric beds leave vulnerable patients without appropriate specialist care. General hospital wards are not secure or designed for acute mental health crises. Patients experiencing severe psychosis or mania can abscond or be at risk of serious harm. This creates significant safety concerns, places additional strain on staff and blocks beds needed for physical health care.

Where it’s popular

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