The RPS has welcomed news that NHS England and NHS Improvement’s will invest an extra £15 million to strengthen mental health support for nurses, paramedics, therapists, pharmacists and support staff, as part of efforts to cope with the second wave of COVID-19.
Proposals include funding nationwide outreach and assessment services, ensuring staff receive rapid access to mental health services.
Announcing the funding at the House of Commons Health and Social Care Select Committee yesterday, NHS National Mental Health Director Claire Murdoch also recognised the incredible contribution of pharmacists during COVID-19.
Chair of RPS England Claire Anderson said:
“After a gruelling seven months, pharmacists are already under strain as we head into what will be a challenging winter, so it’s welcome to see them included in this new mental health service.
“COVID-19 has shown how important it is to support staff wellbeing, wherever they might be delivering patient care.
“This is a positive step and I hope the Government and NHS can build on this so that pharmacists and all staff have equal access to support.”
Read our submission to the Health and Social Care Committee inquiry on burnout.
Find out more about our workforce wellbeing campaign in collaboration with Pharmacist Support.