Mental health services to get new funding boost

The government has published plans to transform England's mental health services, including a new focus on earlier diagnosis and increased funding for psychological therapies.

Extra finance worth around 400 million pounds over the next four years will be provided to improve access to evidence-based treatment options, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and counselling for depression.

The plans recognise the fact that three-quarters of people with mental health problems first experience symptoms before their mid-20s, while depression is the most common mental health problem among the over-65s.

Deputy prime minister Nick Clegg said the strategy aims to give mental health the same importance as physical health.

He said: "We need to end the stigma attached to mental illness, to set an example by talking about the issue openly and candidly and ensure everyone can access the support and information they need."

Paul Farmer, chief executive of mental health charity Mind, welcomed the principle of the reforms, but suggested that their implementation will be difficult given the widespread changes planned for the NHS in the coming years.