Voluntary sector provision could be doubled

The amount of state-funded mental health treatment provided by the voluntary sector could be doubled over the next three years, under plans drawn up by a new coalition.

The Mental Health Providers Forum aims to increase voluntary sector provision in mental health from an estimated 10 per cent to 20 per cent within three to five years.

Chief executive Judy Weleminsky said the voluntary sector could provide an approach focusing on wellbeing, promoting independence and offered motivated and committed staff.

In contrast, she said private providers sometimes offered a cheaper service which cut corners in terms of staff and supervision.

She said: “What the voluntary sector is able to do is work very closely with people on the recovery model.”

The forum has been running informally for two years but was launched formally in November. Agencies interested in joining contact j.weleminsky@mhpf.co.uk