MPs promise action in Chesterfield

After a tour of the service, Ms Engel and Mr Perkins heard about the current issues affecting mental health service users and their carers.  Points raised included:  being treated differently by local hospitals, job centres and the police; concern about an ineffective benefits system that is set up for physical health problems not  mental health problems; and worries that some GPs, who will be involved in commissioning services, do not understand mental health issues.

Michael Crossley, from Dunston, who volunteers at the Rethink Mental Illness service in Chesterfield, said: “I hope that by meeting my MP today, positive changes will be made for people affected by mental ill health. I’d like to see a dedicated Mental Health Minister to make a difference to people living with mental illness.  I came along today because I wanted to talk to the people who have the power to make a difference.”

Toby Perkins, Labour MP for Chesterfield and Shadow Minister, said: “Having the opportunity to meet people and hear their concerns has been extremely valuable. The coalition Government is making significant changes to the way we all receive healthcare, so it’s vital they listen to the needs of the most vulnerable people in our community. It’s not right that people with mental illnesses and their carers are under additional pressure as a result of national reforms. I intend to raise these issues in Parliament with the aim of getting better outcomes for mental health service users in Chesterfield."

Natascha Engel, Labour MP for North East Derbyshire, said: “Whilst we are lucky to have some fantastic support groups and care available on the doorstep for many of my constituents, I’ve also heard some very worrying concerns that need to be addressed today. It’s vital that protecting the rights of people with mental illnesses and their carers is discussed in Parliament, and actions taken. People need the support of good mental health services and the repercussions of their needs not being met, not only affects them and their carers, but also other public services and the wider healthcare system.”

Charlotte Wetton, Activism Officer for Rethink Mental Illness, said: “Today has achieved really positive results.  Both MPs agreed to visit Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust community mental health team to learn more about the improvements needed to local provision. Both MPs agreed to host constituency surgeries in the Rethink Mental Illness service on Holywell Street for all constituents affected by mental illness and to host a roundtable event with existing and new commissioners of mental health services to ensure the problems people have in accessing services are rectified."