Mental health target missed for almost a quarter of children and young people

Responding to Public Health Scotland statistics showing the 18-week mental health treatment target is being missed for almost a quarter of children and young people, and for a fifth of adults, Scottish Liberal Democrat leader and health spokesperson Alex Cole-Hamilton MSP said:

“I do not understand how nationalist ministers can respond to these devastatingly long waits for treatment with budget cuts and inaction.  

“The SNP have failed by every measure on mental health. Last winter, the government slashed the mental health budget by a staggering £50m, a reckless move that was swiftly followed by Humza Yousaf breaking his personal commitment to clear waiting lists by the spring.  

“To bring down waits, we need to ensure that everyone has access to world-class mental health services. That’s why Scottish Liberal Democrats have just set out plans to increase the tax paid by the social media giants- a move that could help fund more mental health support in schools and get more professionals close to where you live.”