Mental Health: More than 90% of young adults worried about funding for services

Young adults have expressed concern about funding for Northern Ireland’s mental health services.

According to a survey by pollster LucidTalk 91% of 18 to 24-year-olds believing more money is required.

For the over-25s, the figure was 82%.

While in total four out of five people across the country believe mental health services in the region need more funding.

Responding to the poll findings, the Royal College of Psychiatrists in Northern Ireland (RCPsych NI) has called on Stormont ministers to commit to enhanced funding support for mental health services.

The online poll surveyed more than 3,000 adults in Northern Ireland last month.

The findings come amid warnings from health chiefs that demand for services is on the rise.

A draft three-year budget for Northern Ireland had prioritised the health service, with the sector set for a 10% increase in cash funds in the period 2022-25.

However, the collapse of the Executive following the resignation of DUP First Minister Paul Givan means that spending plan will not be agreed ahead of May's Assembly election.

RCPsych NI has launched its own manifesto prior to the election urging politicians to commit to boosting funding for mental health.

Dr Richard Wilson, chair of RCPsych NI, said: "We've welcomed the focus of all parties on mental health and the publication of the 10-year Mental Health Strategy, but we still need to close the gap between funding for mental and physical health.

"The poll clearly shows people think that the need for mental health services will increase and funding should be focused on delivering these, particularly as we recover from a pandemic. The simple fact is, without funding the Mental Health Strategy will remain just a vision.

"As we launch our manifesto, we're appealing to all political parties to ensure they continue to build on the momentum already started to deliver real change."