Question reference: S6W-08406
- Asked by: Jackie Baillie, MSP for Dumbarton, Scottish Labour
- Date lodged: 6 May 2022
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Current status: Answered by Kevin Stewart on 20 May 2022
Question
To ask the Scottish Government whether it is providing additional funding to Breathing Space in order to support people experiencing mental health impacts as a result of the cost-of-living crisis.
Answer
In 2021-22, the Scottish Government funded NHS 24 £2,372,209 to support the delivery of Breathing Space, a free, confidential phone and web based service for people in Scotland experiencing low mood, depression or anxiety.
The Scottish Government recognise that demand for mental health support from NHS 24 continues to be high, that is why a significant investment of nearly £5 million was made from the Recovery and Renewal fund in 2021-22 to support the NHS 24 Mental Health Hub.
The Mental Health Hub is available for any individual calling the 111 service seeking support for their wellbeing and mental health, or if they are in distress, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Breathing Space and the Mental Health Hub will continue to support people experiencing mental health impacts as a result of the cost-of-living crisis as spending plans are developed and agreed with NHS Boards through the usual channels.