Government launches call for evidence on new mental health strategy
The Government has launched a call for evidence to inform a new cross-government mental health strategy for England, describing it as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to shift the focus from crisis intervention towards prevention.
The strategy, announced on 15 May, explicitly recognises workplaces as part of the prevention picture.
MHFA England® has welcomed the announcement and is engaging with the call for evidence ahead of the 10 July deadline.
A national focus on prevention
The new strategy represents an opportunity to take a broader view of mental health, recognising that prevention happens across many parts of society, not just through our interactions with health services.
Sarah McIntosh, Chief Executive of MHFA England and the Association of Mental Health First Aiders®, said:
"We welcome the announcement of a cross-government mental health strategy built around prevention and are ready to work with the Government to help make this happen.
"With most adults spending around a third of their time at work, employers have a direct role in supporting mental health, spotting signs early, and helping people access support.
"The strategy's recognition of workplaces alongside schools and the voluntary sector is a huge opportunity. We've trained more than one million people across 20,000 organisations in mental health knowledge, awareness, and skills, and we know this works best as part of a whole-organisation approach that includes leadership commitment, management capability, and supportive workplace cultures."
To learn more about MHFA England's response to the strategy and the role workplaces should play in prevention, read our latest Chief Executive blog.
Why workplaces matter
For MHFA England, the inclusion of workplaces in the strategy reflects the important role employers can play in supporting mental health and wellbeing. With poor mental health costing UK employers an estimated £51 billion each year (Deloitte, 2023/24), and evidence showing an average return of £4.70 for every £1 invested in employee wellbeing, the case for prevention in the workplace is clear.
Have your say
MHFA England is contributing to the call for evidence and is encouraging Mental Health First Aiders, Instructor Members, and employers to share their experiences and thoughts before the consultation closes on 10 July.
By contributing evidence and sharing experiences, the MHFA England community can help ensure prevention remains at the centre of the conversation.