Mind welcomes MP mental health fund

The Members Estimates Committee said MPs can often be wary of accessing mental health care from their local doctors.

Committee spokesman John Thurso MP said: "All conscientious employers want to help those with mental health issues and often assistance in accessing help is the first vital step.

"Being an MP is a privilege but brings particular stresses. It is therefore appropriate for us to take this initiative to assist members to access the help they need."

Paul Farmer, Chief Executive of Mind, said: "The stigma facing people with mental health problems often means that they do not access the support or services they need and deserve.

“Mind welcomes the Members Estimate Committee's initiative to provide a service that will provide treatment to MPs, which they otherwise may not get.

“Mind's 'Taking Care of Business' campaign aims to raise awareness of the importance of mental wellbeing in the workplace and what employers can do to achieve this.

“Our aim is that all workplaces, and the House of Commons is no exception, strive for a mentally healthy working environment."

Mind said the 1 in 6 workers estimated to be experiencing depression, anxiety or stress is “the elephant in the room”.

The campaign highlights the fact that mental health in the workplace is too often ignored.

The issue of MPs’ mental health was highlighted in a Commons debate in June when Kevan Jones spoke about his experiences with depression and Charles Walker revealed he has obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Mr Jones said today:

"It's not easy for MPs to go to their own GP to talk about issues such as depression or anxiety. I welcome this decision from the Members Estimate Committee to help remedy this situation.

"This is not about preferential treatment. It's about giving MPs the opportunity to find solutions here in Westminster and have access to the types of services available to their constituents."