PROVISION OF PSYCHOLOGICAL THERAPIES

That this House notes the findings of a recent Pulse magazine investigation showing that patients are waiting many months for assessment and treatment of depression with psychological therapies; is disappointed by the failure of the Chancellor's pre-budget report to commit to expanding provision of psychological therapies; notes that the National Director for Mental Health has acknowledged the shortage of therapists; further notes the strong evidence for the effectiveness of psychological interventions and their recommendation by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence; welcomes the Scottish Executive's recent initiative to expand access to psychological therapies; emphasises the need to expand this access to all age groups and not just those of working age; and urges the Government to instigate a concerted programme of training and recruitment to meet demand.