On the 26 June, Mental Health Matters were pleased to welcome Liz Twist MP for Blaydon and Consett to our central office, where she learned more about the wide range of support we deliver across our services.

The visit included an overview of our 24/7 helpline, which provides immediate emotional support, practical advice and signposting for people experiencing mental health difficulties. The service helps many individuals access support early, often before they reach crisis.

Discussions also focused on the growing demand for NHS Talking Therapies services, the increasing pressures created by waiting lists, and the valuable contribution of Employment Advisors in supporting people to improve both their mental health and employment outcomes. The conversation highlighted the importance of longer-term commissioning and funding arrangements, enabling providers to plan and develop services sustainably beyond the current 12-month funding cycle.

Liz reflected on the importance of achieving genuine parity of esteem between mental and physical health, following her recent contribution in the House of Commons. She also spoke about her interest in improving mental health support for young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET), recognising the vital role that early intervention and integrated employment support can play in improving long-term outcomes.

The visit also provided an opportunity to showcase MHM's Crisis Services and the important role they play within local urgent care pathways. Working closely with NHS, ambulance, police and other blue light partners, these services help people access the right support at the right time, reducing unnecessary attendances at Emergency Departments and improving outcomes for people experiencing a mental health crisis.

Overall, the visit provided a valuable opportunity to discuss both the challenges and opportunities facing mental health services, while reinforcing the importance of collaboration between the voluntary sector, the NHS and government. By working together, we can help ensure people receive timely, effective support within their communities.

Left to right: Kevin Davis, Director of Finance, Sonia McGough, Director of Strategy and Transformation,

Liz Twist MP and Craig Pemblington, Head of Business Development.