SOS are saddened by the Channel 4 report into the lack of prompt mental health patient care in A&E departments



The most vulnerable people in society, who need urgent medical attention and treatment, are being failed by a system that is broken.  

 

SOS is the voice of those who seek our support in their darkest times.   Sadly, for a large number, this is because the exhaustion of waiting, the feeling of defeat in a never ending battle to be seen and heard, means daily struggles continue.  Or worse.



What society are we living in, and what does it say about the people in power, when, with mental health crisis growing, beds are cut - over the last 20 years there are over half less beds available.  



There is an urgent need to address the need for local, compassionate and trauma informed services within people’s own communities, as well as a commitment to understanding and addressing the root causes of mental ill health. 

 

We now call upon central Government to act immediately to ensure adequate services outside of A&E are available for those who need them, when they need them.  The current situation is inhumane.

 

Our experience is that the cost-of-living crisis, lack of affordable homes, and raised levels of general anxiety since the pandemic, are driving more individuals and families than ever before, into experiencing stress, anxiety, depression and feelings that are much darker.



SOS agrees that hospital is not the best place for many people seeking mental health support. However, it is often the last resort for people who feel hopeless and have nowhere else to turn. 

 

And in the meantime, the charitable sector do their very best to support the vulnerable and keep them alive and give hope.  Sometimes, sadly, we are not successful.



Link to C4 news report 

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