Ahead of the parliamentary debate taking place on World Mental Health Day, 10 October at 1:30pm, we have published a new briefing with key recommendations for MPs.

We are urging MPs to prioritise the nation’s mental health and the critical role of the VCSE (Voluntary, Community, and Social Enterprise) sector in delivering mental health care and support.

Use the template below to email your MP – you can find your local MP’s contact details by searching your postcode here and let us know who you’ve emailed: info@amhp.org.uk

You can help by writing to your local MP using our email template and encouraging them to attend and participate in the debate:

Dear [Insert Local MP Name],

As mental ill health and pressure on services continue to rise, it is essential to invest in the Voluntary, Community, and Social Enterprise (VCSE) mental health sector to help people lead healthier lives. I support the Association of Mental Health Providers’ call for all MPs to address the root causes of poor mental health and provide more support to the workforce that delivers vital care and support and, as a constituent, encourage you to attend the Parliamentary debate this World Mental Health Day.

The UK is still grappling with a deepening mental health crisis, exacerbated by the pandemic, the cost-of-living crisis, and economic instability. These challenges have widened health inequalities, especially for marginalised and minoritised communities, further limiting access to support. The VCSE mental health provider sector offers personalised, culturally competent care but urgently needs sustained investment to continue delivering safe, effective services.

The Association of Mental Health Providers, the only national body representing VCSE mental health providers, is calling for urgent action from MPs to:

• Invest in the VCSE sector to sustain vital mental health services
• Address the impact of socioeconomic and traumatic experiences on mental health
• Ensure equitable funding and support for the VCSE workforce
• Tackle the impacts of public service cuts and the cost-of-living crisis

The mental health crisis demands immediate action.

Please read the Association’s full briefing on Improving Support for Mental Health, which outlines how communities and mental health charities providing services need urgent action to drive positive change and can guide you in the debate this week. You might also find The Association’s Manifesto calling for Better Mental Health for Everyone, as well as their other relevant publications useful.

Addressing these challenges is an investment in our nation’s future. The upcoming Westminster Hall Debate on Improving Support for Mental Health offers a critical opportunity to drive the positive change we deserve.

Yours faithfully,
[Insert Your Name and Address]