Talking therapy pilots ‘a success’

The Department of Health (DoH) has reported that its pilots of a psychological therapy programme that took place in Newham and Doncaster have been a success, with the government announcing an expansion of the scheme for ten further projects.

Cognitive behavioural therapy – one example being “talking therapy” – has been clinically proven to aid in dealing with depression and consequently reducing the amount of time patients spend away from work.

Following the successful trial of this scheme, the DoH has announced an expansion of the availability of cognitive behavioural therapy with a ten further pilots supported by two million pounds of government investment.

Patricia Hewitt, health secretary, said: “The blight of mental illness is an issue we are committed to tackling.

“Central to our efforts is the ability for people who are ill to be able to quickly get the right kind of therapy, instead of being prescribed medication.”

She added that while mental health services on the NHS have seen improvements, the department is looking to provide patients with increased choice on the means, location and timing of their treatment.

In January 2007, the government reported that it had held discussions with business leaders regarding the approach to dealing with mental health issues in the workplace and proposals for a national plan to tackle discrimination in this area.