Better mental health support needed, report finds

A healthcare watchdog in Cornwall has called for immediate action to improve mental health services after a review found critical gaps in the area.

The report by HealthWatch Cornwall said the county was experiencing workforce shortages, long waiting times and rural health inequalities.

It said feedback was gathered from more than 500 people in two surveys carried out between October 2024 and January 2025.

Debbie Gilbert, CEO of Healthwatch Cornwall, said the stories within the report made it clear that "change is needed now".

One survey participant said: "I was desperate for help, but the waiting list was months long.

"By the time I got support, I had already reached crisis point."

Ms Gilbert said: "This is an insightful and hard-hitting report that amplifies the voices of those struggling with mental health challenges.

"Long waiting times, particularly for autism and children's learning disability assessments, are unacceptable and leave families in limbo.

"We urge decision-makers to listen and take meaningful action to improve mental health services in Cornwall."

The watchdog’s recommendations include introducing group-based mental health support in GP surgeries to maximise the existing workforce, 'while-you-wait' support systems to reduce waiting times without extra funding, and using local venues for mental health drop-in sessions to improve rural access.

It also suggested training non-clinical staff in de-escalation techniques, encouraging social prescribing and simplifying access to services.

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