Voice of London

A recent study carried out by the BBC showed over a 50% increase of students seeking mental health support whilst studying at university in the past five years.  

Although the study displays those who have reached out for help, the new Budget 2018 plan suggests that a bigger crisis exists as more help is being introduced towards the cause.

Today, during the revealing of the Budget 2018, Chancellor Philip Hammond announced that as the 70th anniversary of the foundation is approaching the NHS is: “the number one priority of the British people.”  

Hammond went on to explain the NHS 10 year plan that will include new comprehensive mental health care support that will be implemented in every major accident and emergency unit across the country.   Children and young persons crisis teams are also to be introduced in every part of the country with more safe havens in communities, mental health ambulances as well as a 24-hour hotline for mental health support are also being introduced.

Hammond went on to explain that these new services will make sure that people suffering from these crises, young or old, can get the help they require which will be: “ending the stigma that has forced too many to suffer in silence and ending…the tragedy [of] too many lives lost to suicide.”  

As part of the 2018 Budget the government has stated that there will be an increase of mental health funding by a minimum of £2 billion a year by 2023-24.

The full Budget 2018 is now available online, check it out below:

If you are suffering or concerned about anyone who is going through some mental health problems please contact the Mind hotline below:

Phone: 0300 123 3393 (Mon to Fri, 9am to 6pm)

Or visit the NHS website for full list and phone numbers.

See also: The problem with mental healthcare in the UK

Words: Laureta Doci | Subbing: Benedetta Laterza