Government commitments welcome but sustained support still needed

21 March 2024

Commenting on today's Department of Health and Social Care response to the rapid review into data on mental health inpatient settings, Saffron Cordery, deputy chief executive at NHS Providers said:

"We welcome progress in taking forward the rapid review's recommendations, and in particular, the government's commitment to incorporating patient and family perspectives into care delivery. This will help to make sure their voices are heard a key part of patient safety.

"Trust leaders are clear that better information recording and sharing has a vital role to play in quality of mental health care, as well as in preventing abuse and improving culture and practice. Enhancing data collection, quality and use, alongside bolstering digital infrastructure is therefore essential.

"While the government rightly recognises the importance of digital platforms for benchmarking, these goals demand sustained capital funding and workforce support. Long-term, sustained investment is vital to translate commitment into action."